Accountability can be a real bummer! What a drag to have to do what you said you were going to do, when you said you would do it! What if you aren’t in the mood? What if you don’t feel good, you’re tired, pissed off, or can do it later? How much of what should get done at work or home would actually get done if no one was there to check on us? Think about how hard you probably work to get to that long list of things you have been meaning to do before you host a big party. The reason I bring this up is that I am coming to believe that personal change of any kind is much the same.
I can promise myself that I am going to get in shape, replant the flower bed, keep a gratitude journal, pursue my passion, follow my marketing plan, but if nobody knows…I was reminded of this yesterday when speaking with a friend. I have made my marketing plan for my seminars, (if you have no idea what I am talking about please check out my Brighten Your Light page), and feeling great. She was asking me when the next seminar will be for the first group of graduates. Great, this is in my plan! “Oh, that’s in my marketing plan. I am going to try to have one before the end of school which is June 19th. I know the end of school gets crazy with parties and I am not sure what our topic will be.” Hear me weaseling out already?
When I tell women about my seminars for the first time they are usually on board with the concept, lots of head nodding and smiling. Then I explain that I want to incorporate accountability and sharing your dreams and the party is over. One woman literally looked like she wanted to puke. Seriously people, I know it is really hard, but if you want to change any part of your life, I believe you really have to put it out there. Tell someone you trust to be gentle if that’s what you need. Tell someone you know will tease the hell out of you if that is more motivating. Whatever works for you. Inertia is a powerful force and getting some accountability is a great way to get that ball rolling.