TRANSFORM YOURSELF

Be responsible to self and others as well

BY Archana Law

Establishing a clear definition of ‘accountability’ – and what it means for individuals, teams and organisations, in terms of concrete actions and thoughts – is necessary to ensure that everyone has the right idea when they set out to achieve results in every sphere of their lives.

BE ACCOUNTABLE This begins with a person doing what he or she says they will do and then getting their teams to do the same. Holding ourselves responsible and accountable for our decisions and actions begins by understanding that we’re answerable to others in many matters.

If any act of ours has an impact on others and/or self, one has to realise that each decision and action sets off a series of events for which we must hold ourselves responsible.

BE MINDFUL Incorporating accountability in our daily lives means cultivating the habits of forethought and mindfulness, which raises awareness of the results and effects of our actions at every moment.

In a workplace or business setting, this means understanding that we are responsible for delivering the best results for specific tasks and knowing that our work affects that of others as well. Performing poorly, shirking responsibility and laying the blame on colleagues are actions that undermine one’s sense of accountability.

Similarly, when we understand that we’re responsible for our own wellbeing, we’ll question our motives and act carefully even in matters of personal importance. And this will drive our brains to cultivate a habit of always thinking positively and searching for ways to achieve the best possible outcome in every situation.

BE RELATIONAL Holding others accountable for their actions is also essential as it instils in them the fact that these have consequences that impact others too. People who aren’t accountable for their actions are always trying to run away from responsibility and invariably put in the least effort.

In any team situation, such individuals undermine not only their progress but also that of the organisation as they make it unduly difficult for everyone to achieve their goals.

And in such a situation, accountable individuals and leaders must demonstrate – and demand – accountability from every member of the team so that all can work in harmony towards a single constructive goal, rather than fight over who did what.

TAKE OWNERSHIP When we’re personally accountable, we take ownership of situations that we’re involved in. We see them through with responsibility for what happens – be it good or bad; and rather than blame others if things go wrong, we do our best to right what’s wrong.

Although accountability isn’t a trait that people are born with, it can be learnt. These suggestions are for those who wish to do so.

BE PROACTIVE Instead of reacting to your circumstances, practise emotional regulation, align your daily routine to your vision and set about planning your time around your goals with discipline.

BE RESPONSIBLE It’s hard to be personally accountable if you aren’t clear about what you’re responsible for. If this is the case, request clarity about your tasks and expected outcomes. And if you’re in a supervisory position, share this clarity with everyone involved.

BE HONEST Deciding to do the right thing seems like a simple rule for life and business but it is often lost in the daily grind. People frequently default to the simplest option as an automatic response, which often means that integrity isn’t upheld and accountability is at stake.

Being honest and accountable are daily decisions for everyone; not simply one-offs or reserved for top-level decision makers only.

BE EMPATHIC Listening to understand helps solve problems and find effective strategies. It also enables a motivating, supportive and productive environment for coworkers and teams to display their creativity and talents. In the long run, establishing interdependent relationships in a positive environment is a definite win-win.

BE ACTIVE Regular activities to maintain your physical, mental, emotional and social balance are vital to developing and remaining in a state of wellbeing. In addition to the set of habits and behaviours that generally classifies as wellness, wellbeing is a state of existence.

Naturally, the two go together since one contributes to the other and a sense of wellbeing often begets more wellness habits.

We can be so much more than who we are right now. The aim is to take control and promise to make it so much better for oneself. So don’t be afraid to rock your boat a little and take the plunge to do what needs to get done!

Instead of simply wishing for things to be different therefore, you can change what you want to transform and find a greater meaning to life that is without guilt, shame, judgement or remorse.