Who holds you accountable?

We grow up with built in accountability from our parents and teachers. As we age we choose who we are accountable to in the form of our employer and/or boss. With the unconventional life of an entrepreneur, we lose the built-in accountability most people have.

So that begs the question, how do you respond to expectations?

There are two types of expectations: Inner and Outer. The key is knowing which matters more to you.

Inner expectations come from ourselves. What do we expect of ourselves? How do we hold ourselves accountable to those goals we set, habits we want to build, and those we want to break. Will we let ourselves down or is our inner voice stronger than anything else?

Outer expectations come from others. Like I mentioned above, entrepreneurs have to seek those out as the built in outer expectation from a boss isn’t available. A spouse, a coach, or a consultant (on the short term) can provide it. Even employees can give some outer expectations to you: will you return the work you said, give them paychecks on time, etc.

You can read about the 4 tendencies and how they apply to expectations in Gretchen Rubin’s book. A related quiz will show which tendency you are.

Most people need outer expectations to succeed.

For me, I rely on both inner and outer expectations but more heavily on inner. If I don’t have the inner drive to put my mind to something but need to get it done, I build in outer expectation. That’s how I ended up getting back in shape and staying in shape for the last 3 years.

Even if inner expectations drive you, some outer accountability helps. Use friends, rewards, business besties, coach, or consultant to keep yourself honest so you complete the uncomfortable work which will ultimately lead to your goals!

If you need help setting up a plan to reach your goals, let’s renovate your work together. I’ll be your outer accountability for our month-long process. In the end, you’ll be focused, organized, and ready to succeed in all areas of your life.