Accountability: A Carrot, Not A Stick
If you've been following along for a while, then you know that here at Myrth, we try to be really careful about the language that we use. We make an effort to avoid saying we're busy, even when there's a lot on our plates. We spent a lot of time thinking about whether we want to form habits, rituals, or routines. Whatever we’re talking about, odds are good we've spent more than a few minutes thinking about how to express that idea using just the right words.
Which is why we wanted to talk a little bit today about accountability.
We've mentioned the word around here before, and we’re really big fans of having accountability buddies, but we've never really done a deep dive into why we use that word and what it means to us. After Emma did an interview on a podcast recently, though, we realized that some people might think the word has a negative connotation.
We don't think of it that way at all. For us, accountability is linked with support and encouragement. Let's explain.
When you ask the dictionary, it'll tell you that accountability is “the state of being accountable, liable, or answerable.” Not terribly helpful, is that? When you look further into the definition of accountable, the dictionary just says it means” subject to the obligation to report, explain, or justify something; responsible; answerable.” That sure sounds like a disciplinary proceeding, doesn't it?
But here at Myrth, we think having someone to hold you accountable means having someone who will check in on you, encourage you to track your habits and goals, help you get back on the horse when you fall off, and push you to keep working toward whatever it is you want to achieve. It also means that you're willing to do the same for them. An accountability buddy is someone who can help inspire you to do your best and support you in your goals.
Accountability, to us, is more than just an obligation to report. It's an opportunity to connect with someone and grow into a better version of ourselves at the same time. It involves regular check-ins with your buddy so that you both know where you are on your journey and where you need to go next.
When we talk about accountability buddies, holding ourselves accountable, and holding each other accountable, we're not talking about disciplining each other--we're talking about rewarding each other. Somebody who helps you hold yourself accountable will cheer with you when you succeed and support you when things go wrong.
If you're trying to build a new habit, having somebody you can check in with is a huge boost to your chances of success. For us, that's what accountability is all about.
Do you have somebody that will hold you accountable? How does that work for you? Drop us a note in the comments.
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