We are born and raised on the concept of accountability (knowingly or not) and have also, inevitably, been shaped and shifted because of it: parents, rules, curfews, homework, deadlines, meetings, partners, children, and the rest.
These pillars of accountability keep us on track and help us accomplish our goals financially, nutritionally, physically; you name it, and we will find a way to be accountable for it.
So when it comes to the craft we hold most dear, our creativity, why are we so quick to abandon the tools that made us successful in the first place in favor of solitude?
In short — we shouldn’t be.
What is an Accountability Partner?
In the creative working world, we are often driven by moments of inspiration that come and go on a whim (without notice and with no regard for deadlines).
An accountability coach is a neutral third party who understands the long game and can help keep you on track. Typically they can help you harness your energy, capture creative moments, and transform them into approachable, manageable, consistent milestones.
Why You Need One:
1. You’ll be 95% More Successful:
Accountability is a well-known construct that is proven to make you vastly more successful.
According to an American Society of Training & Development study, you are 95% more likely to succeed by simply directing accountability to a third party.
Research shows that even a little accountability produces measurable results when it comes to reaching your goals:
- Having a goal: 10% more likely to complete
- Consciously deciding to do it: 25%
- Assigning a timeline: 40%
- Making the plan: 50%
- Committing to someone else: 65%
- Weekly, consistent check-ins with that someone: 95%
Need we say more?
2. You Need A Hype Man (or person)
Having an accountability partner is a great way to get out of your head. This person doesn’t have the same limiting beliefs about you that you do and can help you stay jazzed-up and motivated about accomplishing your dreams.
You can do it (and they know you can!)
3. Get a Supportive Soundboard
Your accountability coach has been where you’re going and is armed with clear advice, direct experience, and a much-appreciated lack of judgment.
Bouncing your ideas, talents, and strategies off of your coach will get you tangible results.
This person knows the goal, respects the plan, and keeps you on track for the big picture.
4. Form Constructive Habits
How you do one thing is how you do everything, and how you do everything is largely dependent on your habits and behaviors.
The more you practice your craft, work ethic, and accountability, the easier and more natural it will become.
If you are prone to procrastination (hello imposter syndrome), then structured accountability will help you form healthy new habits to get you over the finish line.
So, Where Do You Find An Accountability Teammate?
Fractional COO: How about starting with a management guru or “Fractional COO?” They provide guidance, expertise, accountability, and executive-level leadership to help businesses and organizations avoid roadblocks in their business model and ensure they are on the right strategic and operational track for maximum growth. What does a Fractional COO do, exactly?
Peer Networks: This can be anything from a Facebook Group to a co-working space. Peer networks foster two-way communication allowing you to bounce ideas and learn from each other as you go.
Mentorship: A one-on-one relationship with someone who has a proven track record of success in your field. Typically a mentor is an individual or a group that tailors advice specifically for you and your big picture.
Apps: There are a variety of apps you can use to track your tasks, goals, deadlines, and more, nudging you with notifications to keep you on track:
- Asana
- Coach.me
- Things
And What Qualities Should You Look For?
They’ve been where you’re going: look for a coach with a proven track record in your niche who is respected and accomplished in their field.
They aren’t emotionally invested (but are majorly supportive): Typically, this will be someone you don’t know, who is able to provide clear, concise directives about your work and isn’t emotionally invested in the outcome.
Someone you can respect + don’t want to disappoint: Find someone whose opinion and work you can both value and respect. You will not want to disappoint them, which is a great motivator to stay on track!
Want to Be Wildly More Successful Right Now? We’ve got something for that!
