How to be More Accountable

League of Wildness,

Here’s one of the best ways I keep myself accountable to myself:

By being accountable to other people.

It is exponentially easier to get up at 4:59am for a morning Ruck when I’ve made a commitment to a friend.

And this still works even when you’re not physically with each other.

A couple of my college buddies and I have committed to a big adventure run this summer, and it’s critical that all of us show up prepared.

So we have a text chain where we share Strava screenshots, trail photos, and little bits of proof that the work is getting done.

That kind of accountability works.

Side note:
Rucking has become an integral part of my ultra running training.

At this stage, my focus is less about how fast I can run and more about being capable, durable, and prepared for longer efforts.

Rucking has helped make me a more resilient runner, especially as I move through my 40s.

Article about my Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Run
Podcast about my Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim Run

There’s a psychological phenomenon called social facilitation, where performance tends to improve in the presence of others.

That is exactly the kind of accountability I want in my life.

I’m sure there are a lot of accountability apps out there.

But millions of years of evolution already built a very effective solution:

People keep people accountable.

If you want to hold yourself to a higher standard, you are much more likely to stay consistent when you surround yourself with people who are moving in that same direction.

Want to get stronger?
Spend time with strong people.

Want to make more money?
Spend time with people who make more money.

Want to get smarter?
Spend time with smart people.

I still think building this kind of human infrastructure in real life is the best option.

But if that feels like a real obstacle, online communities can absolutely be a worthwhile supplement.

I’ve long since let go of the scarcity mindset that made me think someone else being stronger, richer, smarter, or "better" somehow took something away from me.

It doesn’t.

One of the best parts of being human is that we can learn from each other.

We can borrow patterns.
We can adopt habits.
We can model better ways of living.

And when we do that well, it improves not just our own lives, but the people around us too.

It’s not about being on top.

It’s about positive trajectory.

Just be diligent about the trajectory you choose.
And the habits that come with it.

How to be More Accountable

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