Accountability is one of those buzz words from the land of business that has been overused in the past decade or so. Many of us may have gotten quite tired of hearing about accountability and may even think that since we are running our own home businesses we’re not really accountable to anyone. In fact, we still need to hold ourselves accountable–even if there is no boss or board of directors to check up on us on a regular basis.
I know, one of the appealing things about a home-based business is the idea that there isn’t a boss or anyone standing over us–no human resources department with forms and time sheets to attend to. I think that most of us realize, however, that we still have to have some standards and we will likely be held accountable for our work efforts by our clients, customers, vendors, and–for most of us–by ourselves.
Besides, if we don’t hold ourselves accountable to professionalism, meeting goals, growth, etc. then who will? It might be harder to stay motivated for some of us without a boss standing over with a clipboard and tally sheet, but it might be even more important now that it is our own business and our own family’s livelihood that is at stake. So, what can be done to keep accountability in mind when no one is looking over our shoulder? It is largely a work ethic and/or ethical issue, but as a home business owner, we have to come up with our own ways of staying motivated. One of my big motivators is to conduct myself (even when it comes to work and business) as if my children were watching. While I do a great deal of work in isolation, I try to think of myself as a model and example for my kids and it keeps me focused (being a single parent and sole wage-earner for the household is a strong motivator too.) I know we can do it–the fact that we’re willing to take the risk and the plunge into home-business ownership doesn’t mean we’re not interested in working to high standard!
Also: Do You Know What You’re Hoping to Accomplish?
What Excites You About Your Home Business?