Build a Team of Accountable People

​by: Micah A. Tecne

A common saying, "no man is an island," reminds us that we live in a world where we need each other. We are created to live and work together. Together, we can accomplish more. To have a more harmonious work environment, we need accountability. Patrick Lencioni said, "without accountability, there can be no trust, and without trust, there can be no meaningful collaboration."

As individuals and team members, we should learn the art of being accountable for our actions and choices. We take responsibility for the results of our actions. As we acknowledge any success of our labor, we should also learn to take responsibility for the consequences of our wrong decisions or actions. There are instances when everything is falling apart, and we tend to shift the blame to others to save our reputation and face. This alters the team dynamics and eventually impedes the team's success.
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As Tamara Renaye said, "Accountability feels like an attack when you're not ready to acknowledge how your behaviors harm others." Being accountable manifests humility in acknowledging one's own faults and taking the responsibility to mend them. Admitting one's own mistake is such a real struggle. It is a dilemma for everyone. Admitting our mistakes may destroy the people's trust in us and eventually destroy our reputation. 

King David tried to cover his adulterous acts, killing Uriah, the husband of Bathsheba, yet Prophet Samuel rebuked him. He acknowledged his fault and took responsibility. He humbly accepted and suffered the consequences of his sin. His humility touched God's heart. Despite his sin, David is still regarded as "The Man after God's own heart." King David's heart of accountability brought more grace and favor upon him.

Being accountable is a sign of maturity and outstanding leadership; as Courtney Lynch said, "Leaders inspire accountability through their ability to accept responsibility before they place blame." The moment we learn to be accountable shows readiness for our promotion and leadership elevation. If we aim for a leadership promotion, we learn to be accountable.

 If we want to have a successful team, it should be composed of accountable people. A team with only one mission and vision. As Pat Summitt said, "responsibility equals accountability equals ownership. And a sense of ownership is the most powerful weapon a team or organization can have." Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. If we want to see ourselves and our organization succeed, decide to be accountable now.