ACCOUNTABILITY

Why you need it

Men not only need accountability; we actually crave it. We want to become better versions of ourselves but we are held back by our insecurities.

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Men prefer to show strength to others instead of weakness. We tell others how good we're doing and try to ignore our flaws. But we won't grow as men if we can't honestly identify our weaknesses and allow others to help us work on them.

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"It is not good for man to be alone"

(Gen 2:18)

I realize Genesis is referring to the marriage relationship but it also rings true for male friendships. A runner naturally tries to match the speed of those around him. A home crowd can push a weaker team to upset a formidable opponent. A man is only as good as the men around him. We tend to rise or settle based on who we spend time with and who challenges us to grow in virtue.

​OK, so tell me how to get an accountability partner!

I recommend contacting someone you already know and trust: your dad, your brother, relative, friend, someone from church, or a co-worker, etc. You can reach out to one man or more than one. Tell them you're starting a men's program and you're looking for someone you could check-in with on your progress.

Accountability for this program is simple: send a text message to your partner or group once a day with whether or not you were successful in the day's challenge. You can add more details if you want (e.g. I prayed for 15 minutes instead of 30, I ran for 2 miles instead of 1, etc.) but keep it brief.

Your accountability partner does not have to register for this program. They don't even have to respond to your message! Just the act of you telling someone your success or failure will motivate your brain to continue and improve. But you may find that accountability deepens your relationship with that person or small group. You might get ideas on how they find success in those areas. You may even become real friends who discuss more than just the latest politics or sports scores. You might end up pondering the depths of your very own will, heart, and soul.

In summary:

1. Ask a man or a group of men if you can check in with them on your challenges.

2. Message them briefly each day with your success or failure.