Mastering Accountability
Don’t confuse accountability with intimidation. Pressure produces compliance, not commitment.
Accountability is drawing out the best in others.
Don’t pressure people. Call them into ownership.
Category Archive: Accountability
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Lessons from Bluebook Gobbledygook
My Sociology prof gave bluebook essay exams. I was convinced he didn’t read them. To test my theory, I filled two bluebooks with gobbledygook. Most of it wasn’t even real words.
I got an A.
Here’s what I learned…
Accountability Without Authority
How would you hold people accountable if you didn’t have authority? Don’t demand what must be given.
Coercion doesn’t produce ownership.
Accountability isn’t the cure for low commitment; it’s an expression of high commitment.
This post shows you how to develop healthy accountability practices.
Cheater at Home – Cheater at Work?
Personal behavior isn’t private when you’re a leader.
Andy Byron, CEO of the tech firm Astronomer, and Kristin Cabot, its Chief People Officer, were captured in an embrace on a Coldplay “kiss cam” (July 16, 2025).
A cheater in one area often cheats in others.
Infidelity doesn’t stay in the bedroom. It shows up at work.
Blame it on the Leprechaun
A leprechaun has given us fits for years.
Recently the dirty trickster hid my wife’s coffee cup. Worse yet, when she puts a mini–Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup on the counter, he steals it when she looks away.
Blame is a beautiful thing.
The Accountability Myth
Successful leaders believe in accountability.
When I say, “Leaders hold people accountable,” who comes to mind? Employees, right?
Authority without accountability is abuse.
Authentic leaders think of themselves, as well as others, when they think of accountability.