Let’s take a closer look at the real meaning of “accountability,” and what the benefits can be for businesses, leaders, employees, and all those who choose to embrace this concept and put it into action.
According to our friends at Merriam-Webster…
Accountable means subject to giving an account, answerable. The editors list “responsible” as a synonym.
The dictionary also went on to note that the first use of this word was in the 14th century, so you’d think humanity would have had plenty of time by now to grow into this concept!
Accountability is defined as the quality or state of being accountable; especially an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility, or to account for one’s actions.
Although this highly regarded dictionary has captured the basics of accountability in its definition, the editors fail to convey the true power and depth of this concept.
Let’s give our definition of accountability, and take it from there …
Accountability = Ownership
This includes ownership of your thoughts, actions, feelings, and last but hardly least, your results. Accountability is the opposite of blaming or playing victim. It is the opposite of passivity, because the attitude of accountability is proactive and powerful. It is taking the high road, regardless of circumstances.
I think we all respect people who take responsibility, those who say, “The buck stops here.” Remember how disgusted we became during the recent elections by all the finger pointing, blaming and mud-slinging? Each candidate blamed the state of the economy on the other party. Each disparaged every bit of legislation or contribution from the other — and this happens in business as well, although usually in much more subtle ways.
Accountability is an attitude that can be learned and practiced. Do you have an attitude of accountability? Ask yourself these questions … or better still, ask your manager, if you dare.
- How do I receive negative feedback? Calmly? Politely? Do I take see it as a heads up, showing me how I can improve, or do I overreact?
- How do I react when things don’t go my way? Do I immediately start to blame others?
- How do I react when my ideas are rejected, or I don’t get the credit for them? Do I sulk, get angry, withdraw?
- What is my attitude when I am given a difficult job to do? Do I mutter to co-workers that the task really isn’t part of my job description, or complain about how much work it is? Do I see it as a challenge, or a burden?
Perhaps if you’re really honest, you will see yourself and your attitudes in some of these questions. If so, you’ve now found the perfect place to begin working on accountability. Study after study shows that people with positive attitudes live happier, healthier lives, and are even more successful.
Although you can’t make anyone else want to be accountable, attitudes are highly contagious. Just by you taking full responsibility for your attitude, you begin to raise the bar for your entire department.
Accountability: Four Keys to Manage Success (Yours & Others)
My 60-page mini book shares more tips and techniques for being accountable — Accountability: Four Keys to Manage Success (Yours & Others).
Read the first part of this series here.
The last part of my blog series, Six Steps to Greater Personal and Business Accountability, will come later in the week.
Stay tuned for more!