The idea of being held responsible can be intimidating. After all, no one wants to be blamed for something, but strong, smart leaders see it differently.
Being held accountable is not the same thing as being blamed – at least it isn’t in well-managed cultures. To be accountable simply means to take responsibility for results whether they are good or bad. Leaders are not overwhelmed by a fear of failure when they see all results as an opportunity to learn and hone necessary skills. Michael Timms, author of How Leaders Can Inspire Accountability explains the spirit of responsible leadership well, “It means finding solutions to problems and applying lessons learned in order to improve future results. Being accountable is constructive because it focuses on the future”.
Whether you’re leading your business, your family, or yourself, taking responsibility is critical for real success. People find it difficult to follow someone who makes excuses or blames others. Even if someone else suggests or insists on a particular course of action, as the leader, the final decision rests with you.
On the other hand, when a leader is willing to take full responsibility, it accelerates their growth and strengthens their influence by earning the trust and respect of others.
The bottom line is this: If others are accountable to you to produce, then you are responsible to them to lead honestly, and it begins by accepting responsibility.
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