Uncommon Accountability

Own your choices and discover the true meaning of accountability

The implementation of true, organization-wide accountability has the potential to transform your firm’s—and your personal—performance. Unfortunately, the word “accountability” often has negative connotations, including blame, fear, and conflict.

In Uncommon Accountability, best-selling authors and leadership strategists Brian Moran and Michael Lennington compellingly argue for a positive and affirming conception of accountability—one that stands for personal ownership of one’s goals, actions, and progress.

The authors show you how to harness the power of accountability, with all of its built-in potential to enable growth and learning, improve well-being, reduce stress, and drive results. You’ll also learn to:

• Manage negative consequences by “holding others capable” and stop playing the blame game
• Shift your thinking to take real advantage of simple behavior changes that improve results and engagement
• Emphasize the power and importance of personal choice in every interaction

Containing real-world case studies that show you how to apply the principles contained within to your own circumstances, Uncommon Accountability is the perfect tool to unlock the potential of your team members.

About The Author

Brian Moran (East Lansing, MI; www.12weekyear.com) is known as the leading expert on execution and implementation is founder and CEO of Strategic Breakthroughs, an organization committed to improving the performance and enhancing the quality of life for leaders and entrepreneurs. His background as a corporate executive combined with his experience as an entrepreneur positions him with a unique skill set to help individuals and organizations grow and prosper. Brian's corporate experience includes management and executive positions with UPS, PepsiCo, and Northern Automotive. As an entrepreneur he has personally launched and led successful businesses and been instrumental in the success of many others. In addition, he has consulted for dozens of world-class companies including Coldwell Banker, Mass Mutual, Medtronic, New York Life, and Tiffany & Co.

Michael Lennington (Lexington, KY; www.12weekyear.com) is the Vice President of Strategic Breakthroughs and an expert in implementing lasting change in organizations. He works with clients in a variety of industries to help them define their strategic objectives, and then to realize those objectives through effective implementation. Michael is a consultant, coach, and leadership trainer.

Table Of Contents

Chapter 1 Accountability as Ownership 1

Your Choices Determine Your Life 9

Chapter 2 The Victim Mindset 19

The Power of Mindset 21

It’s All About Your Thinking 22

The Victim Mindset 25

Flawed Thinking 26

Reinforcing the Victim Mindset 33

Chapter 3 The Accountable Mindset 39

What If? 49

Accountable Relationships 52

Chapter 4 Holding Ourselves Accountable 57

Intentions: Let Your Yes Be Yes 60

Move Out of Your Comfort Zone 63

Health 69

Career 70

Finances 73

Relationships 77

Chapter 5 Limits to Healthy Accountability 81

Being Accountable in an Unaccountable World 87

Chapter 6 Accountability Doesn’t Mean What You Think It Means 91

A Better Way 97

A Culture of Capability 99

Chapter 7 The Consequences Method 103

How to Apply Consequences 110

Chapter 8 Capable Leadership 117

Consequences Exist in Every System 122

The Power of High Expectations and Standards 124

Taking Ownership of the Standards 127

The Accountable Mindset 128

Chapter 9 Holding the Team Capable 131

Critical Structures 141

Chapter 10 Casting an Accountable Shadow 147

Chapter 11 Putting It All Together 157

Introduction 159

What Is Ownership, and How Do You Recognize It? 161

Putting It All Together – Individual 164

Putting It All Together – Leader 175