Turning Struggles into Strengths: The Power of Accountability

Hey loves,

Again, I have disappeared for a while, but I’m slowly getting myself together and back to writing. So much has been going on, and uni has recommenced. Then, substantial tasks, work, and assignments keep compiling.

You know those ones where it becomes a lot… yeah.

After doing a lot of self-reflection and speaking with God, a noticeable habit of mine that I need to change expeditiously is my time management.

Not that anyone asked, but let me tell you, I’ve struggled with this issue for so long. When I tell you the way, it’s been a constant battle between myself and time management, but slowly and surely, we’ll work cohesively and become best buddies.

That’s my weakness, and I aim to switch it into a strength, although I’m aware it won’t happen overnight.

If I’m being honest, I plan each day and ALWAYS have it in my calendar and physical weekly planner. Abiding by my tasks is where the issues arise because I can be defiant and sometimes choose not to stick to them.

I know my discipline needs to sharpen, and I’ve been praying (and still am) for discernment.

I also have an accountability partner, Deborah, who is actually my best friend. She’s probably the person I spend the most time with and knows me well enough to assist me.

One of the panellists at a networking event I attended a few weeks ago implored us all to have someone who can ‘really hold you accountable’. She highlighted it should be someone who knows you personally AND academically.

Deborah’s that individual for me.

The panellist was a successful and lovely woman in a senior position at her firm, having worked her way up from starting in India, moving to Singapore, and now being in London. Everything she said, trust me, I was listening and taking my notes!

I really thought, 'hmmmmm let me inject what she’s saying and action it'.

And I have. Hence, I went out of my way to find my accountability partner.

I suggest you find one to amplify your work ethic. It works wonders; although it’s not obligatory, I recommend it.

Deborah scrutinises what I do well and need to work on, e.g., how to facilitate and replace poor habits with better ones. We give one another positive and constructive feedback, and it works amazingly. Considering we want to maintain a fruitful and long-lasting friendship, this project we’ve been working on is good.

She has drive, and that’s what I appreciate about her. I do too, so we collaborate nicely. For example, she’ll spontaneously book a study room for us and tell me to come or constantly remind me to act on a delayed task, even when I’m tired of hearing it.

It’s the little things. They help me and may help you too – so if you haven’t already, start surrounding yourselves with like-minded people😌

That is what I like about having an accountability partner, and if you don’t have one… find one. Also, let me emphasise that I, too, am her accountability partner and push her a lot.

Regardless of the hardship of now having started my final year of uni, I’ll pull through.

Furthermore, for any of you studying (whatever year you’re in) or whatever mission you’re on good luck; I hope it all goes well. 🩷

With love and curiosity,

Just Jenni