Accountability. That's a word that makes people shiver. It is a word that creates fear in so many people. Why? What does this word mean?
To me, accountability is one of the most important factors when trying to reshape your body. There are many reasons I feel this, but they are mostly buried within that definition above.
Accountability Through Public Goals
One way to achieve accountability is through public goals. Set a goal and then make it very public. Social media is great for this. I used this technique to lose 80 lbs. I set a goal and then told everyone about it. My goal? To get up on stage at a bodybuilding competition–fat or skinny. This goal forced me to lose the weight or risk the embarrassment that would ensue. At times when I felt like quitting the accountability created by the public goal really worked to keep me focused.
Accountability Through Blogging
I got my first taste of blogging because of the need to be accountable. I set up an accountability blog and began blogging daily. Over 500 days later I was still at it. The power of knowing other people were following my progress was insane. I actually made decisions on what to eat or not to eat based on the knowledge that others were reading my progress and I needed to stay on track for them.
Accountability Through Social Media
Social media is an amazing thing when done correctly. I tend to see things as tools and social media is no different. What a great way to get accountability! You can use your social media accounts to build followers and then have your following hold you accountable. Social media accountability is simple to do as well.
Accountability Through Food Tracking Online
The biggest part of getting in shape is how you eat. It is the one part I always struggle with the most. However, using tools like My Fitness Pal will enable you to post your meals and have others see them. This will be a major accountability tool when used correctly.
Honesty — The Ultimate Key to Accountability
What good is accountability if it doesn't come with complete honesty? There is a major character flaw in many people that has them saying one thing and doing another. Why post online that you worked out so hard if you didn't step foot in the gym? Why post what you ate when it isn't really what you ate? This attitude shows you are not very serious about your plans, so why are you wasting everyone's time? Be honest. It is the only way accountability works. Don't lie to others because in the end you are also lying to the most important person in the equation–yourself. Accept your failures along with your successes. In the end you will pile up far more successes by being honest and allowing others to give you the accountability you need.
