Have you experienced true accountability?


When it comes to business success, accountability is often touted as a key ingredient. But most of what passes for accountability isn't true accountability at all.

True accountability isn't about being reliable, or simply checking off tasks.

It's a two-way street that involves reporting to someone who genuinely cares about your results and is invested in your success.

This person isn't just passively receiving updates; they're actively engaged in examining your progress, offering feedback, and helping you learn from both your successes and setbacks.

The Power of Non-Judgmental Feedback

One of the key elements that sets true accountability apart is its non-judgmental nature.

It's not about punishment for missed goals. Instead, it's about curiosity and learning. When you don't achieve a goal, a true accountability partner doesn't berate you. They ask questions: Why didn't this happen? Is it actually a problem? What can we learn from this?

This approach transforms accountability from a dreaded chore into a powerful tool for growth and improvement.

Real Results

I've seen the impact of true accountability firsthand.

One of my clients, who was only using our accountability process without any additional coaching, reported that she accomplished more in one quarter to move her business forward than she had in the previous two years.

The simple act of knowing someone would review her progress and offer feedback was enough to spur her into action and keep her focused on her goals.

The Transformative Impact

Entrepreneurs who embrace true accountability see faster progress, make better decisions, and feel more supported in their journey. They're able to identify and overcome obstacles more quickly, align their actions with their goals more effectively, and maintain focus even when things get tough.

Implementing true accountability in your business can make a huge difference. But to achieve it, you need to find the right partner, set clear expectations, focus on results, and be open to feedback. It's about engaging in conversations that push you to think critically about your business and celebrating your progress along the way.

Want to dive deeper into this topic and learn how to implement true accountability in your business? Tune in to the latest episode of The Business You Really Want, where Tonya and I offer more insights and practical tips you can apply right away. You can find it on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube.

Here's to your sustainable success,

Gwen

Small Biz Book Club Pick: The Lean Startup

The Small Biz Book Club’s October selection is The Lean Startup by Eric Ries.

Chosen by members, The Lean Startup focuses on effectively leveraging human creativity for business success.

The book club is free and open to anyone who loves to read and discuss business books. We’d love to have you join our next session on Oct. 16. Click the button below for details.

Whenever you're ready, there are 3 ways I can help you:

  • Schedule a call to discuss how I can help you design your business with intention.
  • Join the Small Biz Book Club to discuss applying big ideas from business books to small business reality.
  • Book me as a speaker or podcast guest.

PO Box 1133, Merced, CA 95341
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Gwen Bortner | Everyday Effectiveness

Gwen Bortner is a business advisor who provides outside perspective and unwavering accountability. She’s also the one to ask the hard questions others won't. After four decades of working across 47+ industries, Gwen has learned that marketing and sales have built-in feedback loops — you know quickly if they're working. But the behind-the-scenes engine that runs your business? That's where the blind spots live. That's where successful businesses secretly start breaking down, even when everything looks fine from the outside. Gwen's monthly newsletter provides tips to help you identify bottlenecks others miss so you can build a business that performs well without consuming your life.

Read more from Gwen Bortner | Everyday Effectiveness

Reader — Sometimes our business grows in directions we didn't intend. What aspect of your current business model exists more by accident than by design? Is it serving your long-term vision? I’d love to hear what comes up for you, so let me know! I read and respond to every email personally. Speak soon, Gwen

Reader — Business owners often confuse being busy with being productive. What's one activity you regularly engage in that feels productive, but might actually be a sneaky form of procrastination? I’d love to hear what comes up for you, so let me know! I read and respond to every email personally. Speak soon, Gwen

Reader — Many entrepreneurs struggle to maintain consistent support systems as their business evolves. Who provides your most valuable outside perspective? How could you better leverage that relationship? I’d love to hear what comes up for you, so let me know! I read and respond to every email personally. Speak soon, Gwen