This article was originally posted on the BusinessBusinessBusiness website – link to the original article

The thing that sets apart the people who get stuff done and those who float along in life – is accountability. Making sure you do what you say you are going to do!
You can’t keep yourself accountable, too many other things get in the way. You need someone or a team of people to answer to. People who understand you and your business, who have your back, who respect you.
For accountability to be effective it must come from outside of your business – unless you have a board that you are answering to! People from outside of your business will see things you don’t see. They can be objective. Basically, they have nothing to lose by telling you what you need to hear.
In small business the owner is everything – the person setting direction, implementing the direction, doing the accounts, the marketing and even making the widget. Keeping ahead of competition, serving customers and being aware of the advances within your industry. Business can quickly become very overwhelming and you can very easily get caught up in the day-to-day running.
The ability to be able to stay in control of the day to day running of your business and think of the bigger picture becomes a balancing act. To be able to progress your business you must be able to have the head space to keep focused on the bigger picture. And having an accountability group or buddy helps with that.

SO WHERE CAN YOU FIND AN ACCOUNTABILITY GROUP OR BUDDY, AND WHAT SHOULD THEIR ROLE BE?

Here are a few different styles of accountability you can use. What resonates with you? What do you think would work best for your own learning style?
  • You can pay a coach or mentor to work with you one-on-one
  • You can seek out an accountability program and join the group
  • Join a networking group that meets regularly and keeps you accountable by setting goals/actions at each meeting and reminding you about them at the next one
  • Create your own group of likeminded friends who meet regularly
Accountability groups could be online or meet in person. You may meet weekly, monthly or bi-monthly. The timing will depend on your needs and how quickly you can get stuff done in between sessions. Getting stuff done is the key to your success. It is no point just turning up with excuses as to why you haven’t done something – if you didn’t do what you said you were going to do, maybe you pursued another opportunity. Don’t stand still in your business.
Whoever you choose for your accountability buddy or group should meet your specific needs. So, what do you need help with. Is it just sticking to your goals? Maybe planning and goal setting? Maintaining clarity & focus? Brainstorming your ideas, thinking bigger? Possibly someone to call you on your fluff and excuses?
Be clear on your needs and what you want. This will help you decide who you need to bring in to keep you accountable. And it could be a mix of any of these things – you may have a coach, a networking group and an accountability group! Whichever is going to be the most powerful for you and help you to grow your business!
When you are focused in your business, ensuring everyday that you are working towards your goals. You have clarity over your goals, and know they are driving your business not only forward but up. When you are kept accountable by people who are honest and really, truly have your back. It is only then that you can move full steam ahead and feel successful in your business. Having a good support around you will also move you through your mindset blocks – like lack of confidence, inner stories, imposter syndrome and so much more.
Create or find your support today so you can have a successful business tomorrow.