Being Accountable

As we explore the path of conscious leadership, we naturally stop at the milepost of accountability. To some, this word carries weight, perhaps even crushing weight. But let’s look at it in another, more positive light. When you make a commitment, you create hope. When you keep a commitment, you create trust. This simple truth, when applied to oneself and to those who report to us, clears the brush and debris from the path toward conscious leadership.

It is especially useful in evaluating the extent to which you—or members of your staff—are delivering on their promises, meeting goals, expectations, and achieving desired results. Are you, as a leader, delivering results? If you are bigger on the inside than you are on the outside and you acknowledge that you aren’t getting the desired results from your efforts, you can take comfort in the knowledge that you are still a good person. By making an honest appraisal of why you’re falling short, you may come to a conclusion that may change your direction toward a more successful path. Perhaps you’re not cut out to be a leader. That’s okay. Character, attitude, and spirit are also key attributes for a follower and it’s important to know where and how you can make the greatest contribution, modeling your own brand of conscious leadership in the process.

This exercise extends to those who report to you. Work with them so they understand exactly what is expected of them in their respective roles. Discuss the concept of accountability with them. Follow up at regular intervals and ask them to report back on their accountability. And work with them to fine tune, or, if necessary, redirect them through accountability to maximize performance and success in the workplace. Also, remind them that when they make a commitment, they create hope. When they keep a commitment, they create trust—and to not get the two mixed up.