The Merriem-Webster's dictionary definition of accountability is as follows:
"the quality or state of being accountable; especially : an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions"
Accountability is a key component of long term success in your fitness and health journey. If you are not accountable to yourself, a fitness partner, or anyone in general, you somehow give yourself permission to stop what you are doing and become complacent. Complacent in what you eat, in your activity level....it's easy to become lazy, think up excuses, and tell yourself you'll just "start tomorrow."
For today, I'll be your virtual accountability:
1) Have you worked out today or do you plan to? How will you move your body today?
2) What does your menu look like for today? Are you eating 4-6 times per day? Does your menu include protein, healthy fat, and fruits/veggies?
3) Are you attending any events or social gatherings this week? How will you plan for it in advance-- find out what they are serving, make sure you get a workout in that day, sample the food instead of the free reign mentality, stick with one drink then switch to water, etc.
4) If you are close to reaching a goal, have you thought of your next goal? You must keep going your whole life.
5) What's in your kitchen? Is there anything there that is "calling your name?" My advice is to avoid bringing your kryptonite foods into the house, period. You will eventually eat them.
Take a minute and think to yourself, "Where is the accountability in my life?" Is it yourself? Your family? A gym buddy? If you don't have it, find it and find it quickly. On the flip side, if you already have that in your life, then serve as someone else's accountability person. YOU can help a friend or loved one bust through the excuses. YOU can be that person that helps someone else achieve their goals and beyond.
