In the journey of self-improvement and achieving one’s goals, the concept of personal accountability stands as a cornerstone. Merryl Tengesdal, in her book “Shatter the Sky: What Going to the Stratosphere Taught Me about self-worth, sacrifice, and discipline,” offers invaluable insights into this critical aspect of personal and professional growth.
Tengesdal’s approach to personal accountability is straightforward and unapologetic. She recounts a conversation with a friend about achieving long-term goals. When her friend vaguely mentioned being open to whatever the universe presents, Tengesdal challenged him with a dose of reality: “That’s a load of bullshit. And you know it.” This directness underlines a key message in her book – hope is not a strategy. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of having a clear plan, setting measurable milestones, and actively working towards them.
One of her ‘Merrylisms’ from the book resonates deeply on this topic: “Growth is impossible without personal accountability.” Tengesdal believes that for any goal, dream, or desire, the path to success is paved with both successes and failures. Understanding and accepting one’s role in these failures is crucial. It’s easy to blame external factors – other people, situations, or life circumstances. However, Tengesdal urges us to ask, “What can you do? Despite the circumstances, what can you do to make the situation better?”
This mindset of personal accountability is not just about acknowledging one’s role in failures but also about taking proactive steps towards improvement. Tengesdal suggests a three-step approach: First, make a commitment to yourself. When faced with a situation, engage in self-reflection and consider what could have been done better. Second, seek honest feedback from a mentor or a friend who can provide the ground truth. And third, don’t give up. Persistence in the face of adversity is key to growth and success.
Tengesdal’s message is clear: Personal accountability is not just about accepting responsibility for our actions; it’s about actively shaping our journey towards our goals. It involves a continuous process of self-assessment, learning, and resilience. As Tengesdal puts it, “You got this.” This empowering statement encapsulates the essence of her philosophy – believe in your ability to influence your path, learn from your experiences, and keep moving forward.
In conclusion, Merryl Tengesdal’s insights from “Shatter the Sky” serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of personal accountability in our lives. By embracing this principle, we can navigate the complexities of our personal and professional journeys more effectively, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and success.
