We’re back at our desks, immersing ourselves in the routine, and ready to make 2022 a more successful year than 2021.

But what steps are you taking to ensure that your aspirations for this year become reality?

In recent weeks, I’ve talked about the importance of having a specific, measurable plan moving into 2022. Without a plan, you may be moving, but in what direction? And with what results?

Most successful entrepreneurs and sales professionals carry with them a few factors that make them more likely to achieve their goals.

For example, when was the last time you met a successful professional who didn’t exude confidence? To achieve success in business – and especially in sales – you need to be self-assured. If you walk into a sales presentation or networking event with self-doubt, others will inevitably doubt you and the value of what you offer.

In addition to a healthy dose of self-confidence, most entrepreneurs and sales professionals are also determined self-starters. Driving sales and building a business takes both ambition and commitment to stay the course whatever obstacles come your way.

You may be thinking, “Celeste, I have confidence in my abilities. I am a self-starter. And yet, I fall behind on the goals I set out for myself year after year. What’s the deal?”

The reason many confident self-starters with clear goals and action plans struggle is that they lack accountability.

Whether you work in sales or run a business, accountability is key to keeping you on track in the face of obstacles, especially as you strive to reach long-term goals.

Motivation isn’t a substitute for accountability. Why? Because motivation isn’t a constant; it fluctuates. Accountability is meant to keep us on track as our motivation ebbs and flows.

Now that the new year has begun, ask yourself: Have you identified which personal and professional goals you want to achieve this year? Are you already struggling to stay committed to your action plan? If your answer is yes, then it’s important to understand why the absence of accountability might be jeopardizing your success.

First, let’s define our terms. Accountability is when you’re obligated or expected to justify your decisions or actions to another person or group.

When you commit to regularly checking in and giving honest updates with an accountability partner — a respected mentor, mastermind group, or master business strategist — you take a huge step toward achieving your goals. An accountability partner is key for transforming where you are today to building a legacy business.

Accountability isn’t just important in business, it’s critical in all areas of life. Have you set a weight loss or exercise goal this new year? It can be difficult to track your progress and stay on track without someone you respect and trust holding you accountable. Whichever area of your life you’re looking to grow in, the same accountability principle applies.

At Celeste Giordano Coaching, we hold entrepreneurs and sales professionals accountable to do the things they set out to do daily, monthly, and annually. How many prospecting calls did you make this month? Did you reach your sales quota? Do you find yourself slacking toward the end of the week?

If you’re like most people, touching base regularly with an accountability partner will keep you honest, focused, and receptive to advice and constructive criticism that will empower you to build a legacy business and “double plus” your income this year.

As you get to work in the new year, remember: You either make yourself accountable or you will be made accountable by your circumstances.

Celeste Giordano’s mission is to help business owners develop the skills, knowledge and attitude necessary to “DoublePlus^TM” their income and become effective and inspirational leaders in their fields. Whether it’s taking your successful business to the next level or starting a new venture, she will teach you the exact skills and strategies you need to enroll more quality prospects, build a rock-solid team, and break through obstacles to achieve real profit and lasting success. Celeste is a professional business growth specialist, a master sales strategist, and dynamic speaker with 40 years experience in direct sales and managing high-performing teams.

To learn more about Celeste, click here.

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