OK yes, when some people hear the word "accountability" it may bring up negative feelings. When they think of someone being held accountable, it's usually in a negative sense with guilt and blame.

For me when I hear of holding someone accountable, I simply think of responsibility, ownership--remembering the things that you need to take care of.

A big challenge for most entrepreneurs is being able to prioritize their work and bring all their great ideas to life. They start and stop; get distracted; get bogged down in clerical stuff. They have tthe responsibility for the success of their business and the work they do for clients to continue to growing.

Sometimes it's hard to remember why we do what we do.

When we work in a company we have a team and colleagues to collaborate with. When we are the business alone---there's usually no one else around to help develop our ideas.

Enter the Accountability Partnership.

As a solo practitioner, I depend on my strategic relationships with others to add depth and strength to my business. I have my own accountability partners that are my irreplaceable sounding boards. They know me, understand my business and keep me focused on my core values both on a personal and professional level. (Yes even the consultants need consultants!)

They help me take ownership of my responsibilities and not get sidetracked by unimportant things. Yes sometimes, it hurts, but in the end, being held accountable has helped me achieve my goals and boosted my own personal productivity.

My accountability partners are my cheerleaders and boosting squad.  Yes they hold me to my word, when I'm having a hard time, but they encourage, support and celebrate my triumphs as well.

See--- Accountability isn't a bad word. Being accountable has had a positive impact on my business and personal development.

So who holds you accountable for reaching your goals and realizing your dreams? Who do you count on to help keep you focused? Who gets your business and your ideas and helps you steer a straight path?

If you don't have an accountability partner, get one. It could be a colleague in the same industry but in non competing cities. It could be a networking partner in a related field.  It could be me. Find someone someone who gets you....and get to work.