Accountability: Why it’s Important to Set Goals

Accountability, what does it mean to you?

It’s a term that has several connotations. The first is of negative consequence; the attribution of blame for having made an error. This is obviously important if we’re to live in a fair and just society. We want to know if we’re wronged, the law will be there to hold those people(s) responsible.

The second is on the personal level.

This is the idea of creating standards, not through unnecessary shaming or the creation of a guilt complex, but to remain in alignment with our purpose. As with self-esteem, it’s not so much a trait, but a learnt skill.

In essence, it’s the mechanic behind the success mindset.

Nobody who’s achieved anything of note has done so without having a singular vision and sheer bloody-mindedness. And that comes from getting back up from each setback you encounter and tackling the problem again.

Although this doesn’t guarantee you anything, what it does ensure is you’re giving yourself the best possible chance of a positive outcome. These standards serve you as the example to which you aspire.

They bring into focus the consequences for not following through with your intentions.

The catch, is, that it starts and ends with you. No one else can motivate you as much as you can yourself. Your challenges, goals, and desires will never mean as much to anyone else as they do to you.

You can’t delegate accountability.

It’s something we learn how to do, and it can play a significant part in the maturation process, or as the next step in your personal development.

It promotes independence, and with it a sense of empowerment that can have a catalysing effect not only on your life, but also on those around you. Confidence is infectious, and “success breeds success,” as the old adage goes.

Think about the people you admire most. It’s likely many of them are so full of life and charisma, their success appears to be a gift it comes so naturally to them. They seem to magnetise and attract only positive experiences.

The truth is, their life is no easier than anyone else’s. It has all come through hard work; holding themselves accountable, creating positive mental thought processes and habit patterns to get where they are today.

People don’t achieve their goals by accident.

The so-called ‘overnight successes’ of the world are in fact usually at least ten or so years in the making, and they all invariably have the same origin story – that of making a commitment to hold themselves accountable.

Those who enjoy great success have failed more times than they have succeeded.

That is the part they don’t often share.

WHO CAN I SPEAK TO FURTHER ABOUT THE ISSUES IN THIS ARTICLE?

For help with the issues discussed in this article speak to one of our therapists here at Private Therapy Clinic for a free initial chat or to make an appointment.