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Leadership with Accountability and Ownership

Last week, I had the opportunity to share a conversation with Marty Strong on the EZ Conversations Podcast (Listen Here). In the episode, we discussed Marty's experience in the Navy Seals and the incredible leadership lessons he learned. After retiring and working in the financial sector, Marty heeded the call again to help his country after the 9/11 attacks. During the episode, we explored how one can find meaning, purpose and experience fulfilment. Marty also shared his wisdom in the leadership realm and emphasized the importance of accountability and ownership. The ownership piece is something I have also come to understand on a deeper level while reading the work of other former Navy Seals, Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. It is rare to see leaders take extreme ownership in our current environment, especially in the political and corporate landscape.

As I spent more time thinking and reflecting on my experience with leaders, I realized that I seldom saw leaders in the corporate sphere take on extreme ownership, especially when things go sideways. In my experience, the accountability would be lacking. Even in the political spectrum, we constantly see leaders pass the buck. Furthermore, another thing I experienced with leaders was the lack of vulnerability. It was infrequent for leaders to speak up and own their mistakes. Still, this sense of accountability and ownership is something we can all adopt in our daily lives, especially as leaders of our families, teams and communities. Therefore, in this week's edition of EZ Reflections, I wanted to expand on accountability and ownership in leadership.

The Power of Accountability

Accountability involves taking ownership of one's actions, decisions, and outcomes. It's a commitment to honesty, transparency, and continuous improvement.​

• Enhancing Trust and Performance: A study by Lee Hecht Harrison and HR People + Strategy revealed a significant "leadership accountability gap," where many leaders fail to meet performance expectations, leading to diminished trust and engagement within organizations.

• Fostering Personal Growth: Research indicates that individuals who practice self-accountability experience higher levels of motivation, better problem-solving abilities, and greater overall well-being.

The Role of Courage in Leadership

Courage is the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. Leadership manifests as the willingness to make tough decisions, challenge the status quo, and stand up for one's values.​

• Driving Authentic Leadership: Brené Brown emphasizes that courage is foundational to authentic leadership. It enables leaders to embrace vulnerability, uphold their values, and build trust.

• Promoting Ethical Action: Moral courage involves taking action for moral reasons despite the risk of adverse consequences. It's essential for leaders who aim to act ethically and inspire the same in others.

Integrating Accountability and Courage into Daily Life

Cultivating these qualities requires intentional practice. Here are strategies to embed accountability and courage into your everyday routine:

1. Set Clear Goals and Reflect: Define your objectives and regularly assess your progress. This practice enhances self-awareness and responsibility.

2. Embrace Vulnerability: Acknowledge your limitations and be open to feedback. Vulnerability is a strength that fosters connection and growth.

3. Take Responsibility: Own your actions and their positive and negative outcomes. This builds integrity and trustworthiness.

4. Practice Daily Acts of Courage: Engage in small, courageous acts, such as speaking up in meetings or addressing conflicts directly. These actions build resilience and confidence.

5. Seek Supportive Communities: Surround yourself with individuals who value accountability and courage. Supportive environments reinforce these behaviors.

References:

• Lee Hecht Harrison & HR People + Strategy. (2015). The Leadership Accountability Gap.

• Brown, B. (2018). Courage Over Comfort.

• Positive Psychology. (2024). Courage: An Essential Virtue for Authentic Living.

• Time. (2016). Hold Yourself Accountable — You’ll Be Happier.

• BetterUp. (2022). How to Hold Yourself Accountable: 5 Tips to Start Today.

• Wikipedia. (2025). Moral Courage.

• Wired. (2022). Tips and Tools to Help You Stick to Your Goals.
  

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