When you think of the word accountability, perhaps the name of a particular friend comes to mind. This friend knows what you’re capable of and doesn’t let you settle for less – she checks in when you say you’re going to do something and encourages you to stick with your goals when challenges come.
Accountability in Coaching
This is a picture of accountability, and healthy accountability is a key piece of the coaching process. My aim as a coach is to confidently cheer on each of my clients toward achieving whatever marker of success she’s defined for herself in her current life stage. I’ll ask intentional questions to help bring her back into focus when needed and challenge her to overcome fears that lie in the way of the next step. That next step may feel too steep at first, but the challenge can prove to be an opportunity to grow, create new habits, or move down the road toward the designated marker that lies ahead.
Recognizing your Strengths
A good accountability partner builds confidence by helping you recognize your strengths and lean into them. In what areas would others say you thrive? What do you see in yourself? Let your strengths shine and you’ll find that your confidence skyrockets and you can really tap into your potential.
Confidence that Grows
Confidence is as individual as each person. It’s walking into a room comfortable in your own skin, freeing you to pursue authentic conversations both with people you do know and those you don’t already know – but it does take practice. Certified Life Coach Barrie Davenport said, “Self-confidence can be learned, practiced, and mastered – just like any other skill. Once you master it, everything in your life will change for the better.” Know that you will improve with persistence. Keep a journal or note your progress over time, then periodically look back and acknowledge the progress you’ve made – you may be surprised by how far you’ve come.
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