Here are a few important things to discuss prior to getting started with an accountability partner:

• Be explicit about what is important to you, what you are committed to doing, and what help you are hoping for. If you ask someone and they aren’t fully on board, that’s okay. Thank them for their honesty and for considering it, then move on.
• Ensure they are committed to the process. For example, will they show up consistently? When will you meet and what time? Be very transparent at the outset about how important this process is to you.
• Verbally commit to practicing/teaching as soon as possible after you’ve received guidance from an expert. Let your accountability buddy know what you are practicing and when this will happen. By committing out loud to them, you are committing to yourself. You may want to schedule a specific time with your accountability buddy to “teach” them what you’ve learned.
• Commit to the process and to progress, rather than the outcome. It will allow you to pivot when needed and be as agile as possible, especially when setbacks occur.