The kids were all home and the treats did abound and my stomach was making a rumbling sound. The cookies they called me, the fruit cake so nice, I looked at the salad and said, “No dice!”

Games we played and movies we watched,
my workout schedule I thoroughly botched.

I knew it was bad as I drank hot cocoa, the decision mine alone.
Struggling to pedal the bike up steep hills, my erred ways clearly shown.

I had plans to be consistent and power through the holidays. Obviously, that didn’t happen.

“Why not celebrate a little?” This question can easily lead to destruction if there aren’t checks and balances, a system of accountability.

Accountability is an incredibly powerful tool for accomplishing goals. Some of you may have “resolutions” for the new year or other objectives you’ve set. Statistics gathered by a plethora of researchers place TERRIBLE odds on the longevity of success in these new or repeated ventures.

How many years have you been telling yourself that you’ll eat healthier, lose weight, and start working out this year? That’s rhetorical, don’t answer that.

This year I’ve challenged myself and invited others to join me, creating a system of accountability. When we find ways to combine common goals into a mutually beneficial social setting, a positive peer pressure exists. We find reasons to work toward our goals instead of excuses why we can’t.

Start by seeking motive. Why do you want to accomplish this certain goal? If it’s vanity, it will surely fall away. Life is deep, don’t let fear keep you superficial.

I began cycling to spend more time with my sons. They don’t particularly want to be out in freezing temperatures riding 10+ miles, so I’m on my own for now. Why do I continue? I want to have the energy necessary to keep up with them come spring. I want to be a happier person.

My grandfather suffered many heart attacks in his life; I recognize the need for cardiovascular strengthening in mine. I want to be around to see my kids getting married and have children of their own.

It’s been a rough week, having just restarted my training. I set a goal of riding 250 miles this month. Through an app that tracks mileage, routes, etc. I found accountability. A friend I met this past year is an avid mountain biker and joined the challenge through the app.

Partnering with someone you know and respect is crucial to accountability.  If you don’t care about their opinion, it won’t work.

I’ve been setting up systems of accountability in my spiritual life as well, with groups in person, online, and a daily devotional that includes a discussion with other focused individuals.

What calculated steps will you take to improve yourself and those around you in 2021? In what areas will you desire change enough to create accountability?

Surround yourself with people that inspire you, that elevate your thinking, and push you to be your best. Avoid social media if you can or at least set boundaries that help you manage time and to what you subject yourself.

Don’t believe everything you see, hear, or read – including me. Be fiercely independent of thought, never towing the party line.

Over.

“An accountability partner is able to perceive what you can’t see when blind spots and weaknesses block your vision. Such a person serves as a tool in God’s hand to promote spiritual growth, and he or she watches out for your best interest.” -Unknown

"As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend." -Proverbs 27:17

Drew OUT!