Having an Accountability Partner really works!
Practicing Yoga Everywhere!
For the last 2.5 years since YogiSmile first opened, I have observed an incredible pair of friends being consistent, supportive and committed to their Yoga practice. After a few months, I learned that the role of one of them was more than a friend and also that of an Accountability Partner (AP). I realized firsthand how effective it is to have an AP and decided to share this with you with the hope that you too may decide to get one for you!
According to Wikipedia, Accountability Partner (AP) is a person who coaches another person in terms of helping the other person keep a commitment.”
You might ask: Why would I need an accountability partner? That’s the first and most important question you will need to ask yourself. We all have different abilities and are capable of doing many things on our own, but when it comes to certain tasks or change of habits, we may need support. We may need an extra hand to gently push us forward so we make progress and get closer and closer to our goal or just simply move away from a bad habit and replace it with a good and healthy one.
Once you specify a particular goal or become aware to make a positive change in your life, decide whether you will need help to start and stay committed to make progress. If you decide that you will need help, then an Accountability Partner may be right for you. Take time to decide who would make a good AP!
How to pick an AP and what to consider? The AP could be your family member, a friend, your neighbor, your co-worker or anyone in your circle who you trust. It’s important to pick someone who carries the same values as you do and who is reliable. It’s OK if they have different goals than you do. But it is important that they are interested in helping you achieve your goals. Also, you want to pick someone that based on your past interactions with them, is supportive, patient and encouraging.
Once you decide who will be your AP, make sure you communicate well and agree on a certain structure for moving forward. For example, if you choose an AP for your Yoga practice, talk about the frequency, schedule and types of Yoga you like to practice. This will give your AP an idea to plan how to help you and how much time to set aside for this role.
Some of you may have realized that I am talking about Tracy and Draga. Since they became members of YogiSmile Yoga community 2.5-years ago, they have been practicing Yoga non-stop 3-4 times a week. They never missed their practice, even when they were traveling! I am truly proud of them and their dedication is admirable and inspiring.
So, if you have a hard time committing yourself to a great practice such as Yoga (or any other goal you may have) consider getting an Accountability Partner! It’s a good way to stay committed and accountable to your intentions!
Sending you love and gratitude,
Sending you love and gratitude,
Kay
July 2022