By: Lisa J. Wicker
HOLD YOURSELF ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE VICTORY
Whether your goal is to land a better job, lose weight, finish your degree, or finally become debt-free, there will always be obstacles. Life has a way of testing your determination. Over the years, I’ve learned a defining truth: the difference between those who achieve success and those who fall short often comes down to one key factor—personal accountability.
Winners don’t make excuses. They don’t get caught up in setbacks or distractions. They simply keep moving forward, staying consistent and committed to their goals.
Think about it. Colonel Sanders was considered “too old” to start a business. The Wright brothers had never seen anyone fly, yet they pursued it. Henry Ford built cars in a world that relied on horses. David was too young, too inexperienced, and too poorly equipped to defeat Goliath, but he conquered him anyway. And let’s not forget Madam C.J. Walker, a woman born to formerly enslaved parents who faced poverty, discrimination, and extreme adversity. She didn’t allow her circumstances to define her. Instead, she took control of her destiny, built a haircare empire from the ground up, and became the first documented self-made female millionaire in America. She didn’t rely on excvuses—she relied on accountability, hard work, and an unshakable belief in herself.
These individuals had every reason to quit. They could have easily listed why their dreams were impossible. But they chose the harder, nobler path. They stood firm, faced their fears head-on, demanded excellence from themselves, and in doing so, became timeless examples of perseverance.
So, don’t spend your energy lamenting over what didn’t happen last year. Instead, step boldly into a new beginning. Welcome this new season with confidence and gratitude for all the goodness currently in your life. Remember, you are responsible for everything you are now and everything you will become. With a clear vision, an action plan, and the discipline to stay accountable—plus the faith to know that with God all things are possible—victory is within your grasp.
FIVE KEYS TO HOLD YOURSELF ACCOUNTABLE
1. Eliminate Excuses Excuses are just that—excuses. They may sound good in the moment, but they do nothing to move you forward.
2. Delegate Yourself The world doesn’t owe you anything. You are responsible for showing up, doing the work, and making things happen.
3. Stay Focused Distractions are everywhere. Eliminate them and keep your eyes locked on your goals.
4. Use Your Time Wisely Time is your most valuable asset. Don’t let others waste it, and don’t squander it yourself.
5. Keep God at the Center. When God is your source, you have access to unlimited strength, wisdom, and favor. With Him, you can and will win every time.
Dr. Lisa Wicker, Internationally recognized HR executive, thought leader, author and career strategist, Dr. Lisa J. Lindsay Wicker shares contemporary relevant work life experiences and empowering principles with her clients as demonstrated in her books, The Winning Spirit, Power Play! and her award-winning release – Capacity: Women Shattering the Limits – NOW! With her dynamic approach to life and her signature style, she connects people across the world and finds her mission to be that of helping others to get the most out of their work lives and companies to create value. She is the founder/Chief Visionary of Career Mastered. Following prominent human resources careers with Fortune 50 Companies, Dr. Lisa established her Detroit, MI and Charlotte, NC firm, Linwick & Associates, LLC (LWA).
