iT WASNAE ME!
Step up and own your actions
The teachers at my high school, always said that our school motto should have been “It wasnae me”, given the number of things that happened that nobody would own up to having done.
In today's fast-paced world, where change is the only constant, one quality stands out as a non-negotiable for effective leadership: accountability. It's not just about hitting targets or meeting deadlines; it's about owning your actions, taking responsibility for both successes and failures, and fostering a culture where everyone does the same. And while we often talk about accountability in the context of leading others, it's equally crucial for something even more fundamental: self-leadership.
Think about it. Can you truly lead a team, a project, or even yourself, if you're not accountable for your own behaviour, decisions, and performance? The answer is a resounding no. Accountability is the bedrock upon which trust, respect, and ultimately, success, are built.
What does accountability look like in practice?
It's more than just saying "I'm responsible." True accountability involves:
Taking ownership: This means acknowledging your role in both the good and the bad. It's about stepping up when things go wrong, rather than pointing fingers or making excuses. It's also about celebrating successes and giving credit where it's due.
Setting clear expectations: Accountability thrives in an environment where expectations are crystal clear. Whether you're leading a team or leading yourself, define your goals, outline the steps needed to achieve them, and establish clear metrics for success.
Following through: Accountability is about doing what you say you'll do. It's about keeping your commitments, meeting deadlines, and consistently delivering on your promises.
Being transparent: Open communication is essential for accountability. Share updates, be honest about challenges, and seek feedback. Transparency builds trust and fosters a culture of shared responsibility.
Learning from mistakes: Everyone makes mistakes. Accountability isn't about perfection; it's about learning from your errors and using them as opportunities for growth. Own your mistakes, analyze what went wrong, and take steps to prevent them from happening again.
What makes accountability so important for leadership?
Leaders who demonstrate accountability inspire trust and respect. When a leader owns their actions and takes responsibility for the team's performance, it creates a sense of shared purpose and encourages others to do the same. Accountability also fosters a culture of continuous improvement, where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities and feedback is valued.
And what about self-leadership?
You can't effectively lead others if you can't lead yourself. Self-accountability is the foundation of self-leadership. It's about being honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses, setting personal goals, and taking responsibility for your own growth and development. It's about holding yourself to high standards, even when no one else is watching.
How can you cultivate accountability?
Accountability isn't something you're born with; it's a skill you can develop. Here are a few tips:
Start small: Focus on making small, achievable commitments and following through on them. This will help you build your accountability muscle.
Be specific: Instead of saying "I'll work harder," set specific, measurable goals. For example, "I'll dedicate one hour each day to learning a new skill."
Find an accountability partner: Share your goals with a friend, colleague, or mentor who can provide support and encouragement.
Reflect on your actions: Regularly review your performance and identify areas where you can improve. Ask yourself, "Did I meet my commitments? If not, why not?"
Embrace feedback: Seek feedback from others and be open to constructive criticism. Use feedback as an opportunity to learn and grow.
In conclusion, accountability is not just a buzzword; it's a fundamental principle of effective leadership and self-leadership. It's about owning your actions, taking responsibility for your performance, and fostering a culture of trust and transparency. By cultivating accountability, you can unlock your full potential as a leader and create a positive impact on the world around you. So, take a good look in the mirror and ask yourself: Am I truly accountable? The answer might just be the key to unlocking your greatest potential.