An accountability partner is able to perceive what you can’t see when blind spots and weaknesses block your vision.
 -Charles Stanley 

I have really appreciated the accountability partners that I have had over the years. They were there when I had no one else to talk to, there to listen when I had something really embarrassing to talk through, and they were there to help me formulate my goals. An accountability partnership can be a great two-way road of added value to each party. 

There are all types of accountability partners

An accountability partner can fit into just about any scenario of your life. Here are just a few of the types that you will find out there. 

  • Exercise/health
  • Spiritual
  • Academic
  • Life coach
  • Men/women
  • Business
  • Support groups

They help keep your goals on track

A good partner can certainly help you stay on track with your goals. If they are honest, they will call out areas where you have slacked off or veered away from your intended target. Think of your accountability partner like the bumpers that go up for kids (and some adults!) at the bowling alley. They ensure that no matter what, you hit your target. 

They help take your excuses away

An accountability partner certainly helps keep the excuses away. You might not want to go to the gym at 5 AM, but if you know that Scott is going to be there and waiting for you, you’re more likely to get out of bed. No matter the situation, you are more likely to hit your commitments when you have to meet with someone and/or show your progress. Excuses can dominate our goals when we try to do it alone. 

They give you a different perspective

Although your partner is walking alongside you, they are not in your shoes and they have a unique perspective based on their own life journey. This gives you a different perspective on your hurdles, struggles, and challenges. Maybe you aren’t looking at the problem right. You could totally off base and not even know it.

People have blinders. You have blinders. It’s a common occurrence when I’m pointing opportunities out at a  business and the leader says, “I’ve never seen that,” or “I can’t believe I haven’t noticed that.” Although it makes me look like an eagle-eyed coach, that’s not always the case. The leader has put up blinders because they are there every day. When I go into a new location, I don’t carry those blinders. It’s the same in your life. Your partner doesn’t have the same blinders and can point out the obvious to you. 

They give you someone to celebrate with

What better person to celebrate your personal win with than the person who has been involved in your journey? There is true joy in sharing your victory with someone who truly understands just how challenging it has been and how hard you worked to get to your goal. 

An accountability partner can help you in just about any situation. Connect with the right one and reach your goals in a more efficient and enjoyable way.  

Make a better tomorrow. 
-ZH