Accountability is commonly avoided—both being held accountable and holding others to account.
Often, it’s not true accountability that’s being avoided, but a harmful caricature of it.
Accountability is not about calling out someone else’s mistakes or shortcomings so you can feel better about yourself or have power over them. Accountability is not punitive, nor is it something to be weaponized to shame, guilt, or cause harm.
Accountability is being responsible for one’s actions and impacts. Being accountable is an act of integrity, care, and kindness for yourself and those you seek to serve. Holding someone accountable is an act of care and kindness for the person and your shared purpose.
Let’s stop avoiding true accountability. It’s essential to trust, collaboration, innovation, and change-making.
