ac·count·a·bil·i·ty

 -Written By LifeCoach614 💚 

Most dictionaries define accountability as the state of being accountable, especially with an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one’s actions in a particular setting or situation.  Years ago, I told my kindergarten students an amusing story in hopes of introducing them to accountability.  

“The story was about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. There was an important job to be done and Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.” -Author Unknown

This simple story deals with a lack of accountability, a lack of responsibility, a lack of ownership, finger pointing and assumptions.  Often times, we make the assumption that others know what we need or desire when in reality we’ve never defined our boundaries & expectations, which leads to our disappointment in the end.

We must first understand that accountability starts with us.  If you want other to take ownership of their actions, you must first own yours.  Simply put, you have to walk the walk and not just talk.  Start conversations with “I” vs. “You”, this way you acknowledge your role upfront and encourage others to do the same.  Avoid pointing the finger, because as we all know when you do, three point back at you.  Understand that although you may have had the best of intentions, your actions (or lack there of) may have negatively affected someone else.  Don’t disregard their feelings, just acknowledge that their feelings matter and own what you can.  By taking accountability for your actions, you are opening the door for communication and have a better chance of getting favorable results.