Pearls and Persistent Accountability
Recently, while coaching a team as part of Leadership Development, one member of the team told their leader that they needed a different coach because “Brett” would be too nice and not hold them accountable. This was an interesting revelation for me and one that has irritated me for the better part of several weeks. How do I do a better job of holding individuals accountable; especially as a professional coach?
My first thought is that we must be intrinsically motivated. We have to hold ourselves accountable. This is important, however, this is somewhat of a lazy answer. I am being asked and expected to hold an individual accountable for changing behavior. Just as the personal trainer I pay holds me accountable to exercising on those days I am not at the gym, I must hold those I coach accountable for what they say they are going to do.
As a consultant of the RASCI (Responsible, Accountable, Supportive, Consulted, and Informed) model it is not possible for me or others to use more than a carrot to encourage self-accountability. Otherwise, we would resort to guilt or shame, and I have read enough Brené Brown to know that this is not an acceptable nor helpful technique.
The best approach is to be more persistent—to be that small irritant an individual needs in order to become more aware of themselves and others. Think of clams and how they take small, rough grains of sand and turn them into beautiful pearls.
As human beings we need someone willing to point out our rough edges so with time we can round them out and polish them down until we produce something of great value. This is what makes a great accountability partner—someone who will be a candid and constant reminder we are capable of improvement.
“Ask a friend or mentor if they would be an accountability partner for you this month. Whether it be to meet an exercise goal or a work objective, see if they have time to check in with you once or twice a week via text or email and see how you are progressing.”
