Erica Ashton is a Human Resource Consultant and university lecturer, working out of the Caribbean Region. I have known her for 12 years and recently started working with her on projects within the Caribbean Region with focus on the Empowerment of Young Women.
Erica has the energy that inspires those around her to enjoy living. In her own words, she 'lovingly tortured' me in her teaching of Ashtanga Yoga for a few years.
She is my "Mutual Admiration Company", 2-3 times per week without fail.
As a consultant, navigating the complexities of diverse projects and constantly shifting priorities can often feel like a solitary journey. However, my experience has taught me the immense value of incorporating a seemingly simple, yet profoundly impactful practice into my routine: having an accountability buddy.
The concept of an accountability buddy is straightforward. It involves partnering with a peer who shares a mutual commitment to personal and professional growth. Together, you set goals, track progress, and hold each other responsible for achieving set milestones. This partnership isn't just a formal arrangement; it's a symbiotic relationship that fosters motivation and productivity.
Last year I worked on a project that meant long hours researching and writing, however the dynamics of working with external partners and managing my own responsibilities within the framework of the project left me sometimes demotivated and with a level of irritation that permeated my personal life. Much of my time was spent on my laptop while communicating with people in different time zones.
The benefits of having an accountability buddy were multifaceted. Firstly, it introduced a layer of commitment that went beyond self-imposed deadlines. Knowing that this person was counting on me to report my progress not only motivated me to stay on track but also encouraged a deeper level of introspection about how I approached my work. This reflective practice helped refine my methodologies and enhanced my efficiency.
Secondly, our partnership allowed for an exchange of ideas that proved invaluable. Consulting can sometimes box you into a particular way of thinking, especially when under pressure. However, having a reliable colleague to bounce ideas off helped broaden my perspective and often provided solutions I might not have considered alone.
Moreover, motivation often fluctuates in the life of a consultant due to the variable nature of our work. There are peaks and troughs of activity, and during those troughs, it's easy to feel a dip in productivity. This is where having an accountability buddy really shone. We were able to encourage each other during slower periods, maintaining a steady flow of motivation and activity that ensured we didn't fall behind or lose focus.
From a psychological standpoint, the presence of an accountability buddy also taps into the fundamental human need for connection and recognition. Sharing successes and challenges with someone in a similar position cultivates a sense of camaraderie that enriches the professional experience. It transforms the consulting journey from a solitary path to a shared venture, making the successes more rewarding and the challenges less daunting.
To those considering adopting this practice, choosing the right accountability buddy is crucial. It should be someone you respect professionally and trust personally. They should ideally have a working style and professional goals that complement yours, ensuring a productive and harmonious partnership.
The journey of a consultant, while rewarding, comes with its unique set of challenges. Having an accountability buddy has not only enhanced my productivity and motivation but has also made my professional journey more enjoyable and less isolating. If you haven't yet tried this approach, I highly encourage you to do so. It might just transform your consulting experience as profoundly as it did mine.