Why 90% of Us Fail to Achieve Our Goals and How Accountability Can Change That
Did you know that 90% of people fail to achieve their goals—even though one simple strategy could improve their odds of success by 95%?
That strategy is accountability, and while it’s proven to work, most people never invite it into their process. Why?
It could be because the implied meaning of accountability raises our fear-factor. Whenever I hear the words “holding someone accountable” it reminds me of holding someone under water. It is a power-over move rather than an empowerment gesture.
I wholeheartedly believe that accountability doesn’t have to be this way. In fact, inviting accountability—done right—can become one of the most empowering leadership tools in your toolkit for engaging Advisors.
If you’re ready to embrace accountability as a leadership tool, here are four practical ways to start inviting accountability:
1. Build Trust First
Advisors won’t share their goals or setbacks with someone they don’t trust. Establish a relationship where they feel safe being vulnerable. Trust is the foundation of accountability.
2. Invite Accountability by Asking, not Telling
Accountability works best when it’s collaborative. Timing is everything. The next time a team member decides to take action, ASK if they would like accountability for taking that step.
3. Create a Check-In Cadence
Accountability isn’t about micromanaging—it’s about consistency. Set up regular check-ins to review progress, celebrate wins, and make course corrections. Make it simple and structured, not spontaneous.
4. Cheer Advisors On—and Call Out the Misses
Celebrate advisor success, no matter how small. If they veer off track, don’t shy away from honest conversations. Gently but firmly encourage them to stay committed to their goal by asking if it is still important to them.
Accountability isn’t just the key to achieving goals—it’s the foundation of meaningful leadership.
The Invitation
How could you invite accountability into leading your advisors?
Start small. Pick one advisor and have a conversation about goals. When they commit to taking a step towards their goal, ask permission to hold them accountable.
Let me know how you make out!
One invitation to support someone’s goals can change everything.
The Book Shelf – Books I Love to Inspire Your Journey
When Accountability Changes Everything
The first time I truly grasped the power of accountability was during a 30-day challenge from The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor. My colleague Eric Tan and I committed to texting each other daily about three things: A random act of kindness, three things we were grateful for, and exercise.
While we started strong, the novelty wore off, especially to get the exercise done, but accountability kept us going. Over time, the habit of “checking in” became something I looked forward to. It deepened our friendship. More importantly it created a lasting appreciation for what adding a “buddy” means to the journey of achievement.
The experience made the key point of the book stand out:
Happiness leads to achieving your goals. You don’t need to achieve your goals to be happy.
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