The power of partnerships

Having someone else to be accountable to is often the only kick-start we need to get going.

by Laura Orsini — 

Have you ever noticed a tendency to do for others what we often will not do for ourselves? Whether it is caring for our children, cleaning because we are having guests or keeping a hiking date, we often honor commitments to others that never quite make it to the top of our own priority lists. Having someone else to be accountable to is often the only kick-start we need to get going.

Accountability is the cornerstone of partnership. When you have the buy-in and commitment of a partner, suddenly you are no longer trying to make it on your own.

Partnership fosters commitment, helps minimize pessimism and encourages ownership, responsibility and pride. Simply by having that other person on our team, we often find ourselves able to solve problems or achieve goals that seemed insurmountable challenges when we tried to accomplish them on our own. Partnerships offer great promise.

Why partnerships work

Partnerships work because they can help you:

• Define the problem
• Create a strategic plan
• See alternative solutions
• Increase your support network
• Implement changes
• Measure your progress
• Celebrate your victories

The types of partnerships available to you are limited only by your imagination. Husbands and wives can team up to set and achieve financial goals. Friends can set fitness goals and meet for regular workout dates. Coworkers can support each other to quit smoking. Small business owners can set up accountability teams and watch their successes multiply.

What to look for in a partner

Partnerships are only as strong as the individuals who make up the teams. Before setting your goals with your partner, make sure you and your partner:

• Share visions or goals
• Are equally committed to accomplishing the goals
• Offer support in the ways that best suit each other’s needs
• Regularly review your goals and measure your progress
• Agree to confidentiality, if applicable

Did you set resolutions for the New Year? If you want to maximize your chances for success, consider creating a partnership with someone who has similar goals, and you may find this is the year you finally make that goal a reality.

Laura Orsini is a writing, marketing and design consultant who works with speakers, authors and coaches. 602-518-5376, laura@writemarketdesign.com or www.writemarketdesign.com.

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 29, Number 1, Feb/Mar 2010.