Accountability; An Anchor in the Storm.

A short piece of writing on the elusive ally, accountability.

We all must answer for our actions. In some form or another. We can avoid it for periods of time, and let our haphazard behaviours dictate our trajectory into a state of confusion- however, it curiously seems that more often than not one finds themselves seeking accountability to steer back towards the desired path.

It is interesting, the different forms accountability can take. Usually, for the majority of our childhood it lives through our parents; via their commandments and reminders of discipline as we learn our ways under their wings. As teenagers, some rebel, and seek to adopt the ownership of accountability with the resounding claim “I know best” — an attempt to re-write the rules our childhood discipline set in place for perceived normality.

As adults however, accountability becomes recognisable as the necessary anchor that keeps us functioning — not just as individuals — but as a society. Without it, no one may feel obligated to answer to others, chaos may ensue. Accountability maintains consistency; maintaining the general order of one’s routine through responsibility. It leads us to improvement and gradual success. But without it, the consequences are at best iteratively turbulent, and at worst — ghastly.

However, accountability is no straight speaker — an elusive friend who comes and goes. They are a shapeshifter; presenting themselves in many earthly forms. A constructively critical friend. A tough gym partner or colleague. A caring parent or partner. A fearsome combat sparring partner — keeping you accountable to your training. A faith. A poster on the wall. A quote. A goal. A piece of writing.

It can manifest indiscriminately and omnipresently — particularly, to those who seek it. The option to refuse accountability may also present great treasures — to break free of the rules others set, and live life on one’s own terms. Indeed, for one to be outstanding, one must first stand out. However, like all great rewards — it incurs its own form of risk. The ship can sail faster without it’s heavy anchors onboard, but what if storms lay ahead?