Where does accountability start? This is not a rhetorical question. I believe there is a clear answer: it starts with the leader.

If you, as the leader, want a high accountability culture, it starts with you. Allow me to explain. It’s true: it is lonely at the top. As a result, I have found that from time to time, I have to ask myself some tough questions to hold myself accountable.

Here are some examples you may want to ask yourself.

  • Am I keeping my priorities? Or am I wavering on occasion?
  • Am I communicating with absolute clarity? Or is it fuzzy sometimes?
  • Am I really listening to the other person? Am I 100% locked into what they are saying? Or am I wanting them to stop talking soon, so I can be heard?
  • Am I being  honest about what areas in my leadership I need to improve?
  • If I am honest about areas of improvement, do I have a plan with specific action steps?
  • Am I living out my values? Does my team know where I stand on matters of importance? Or am I not as predictable as I should be?

I mentioned accountability culture. What does that look like? There is a common denominator in an accountability culture. Everyone holds themselves accountable to their teammates for commitments in a positive and productive manner.

John Maxwell said this, and I believe it—”Everything rises and falls with leadership.” With accountability, that begins and ends with the leader. The first person you lead is you. Asking yourself challenging questions is a good start.