Accountability.

Just one word. But it’s this word that helps me get things done. And not just in writing but in everyday life. I am a creature of accountability.

WHAT?! It's a good shirt.

For example, I like to run and cycle and do active things. But there’s always something else that comes up. Sometimes it’s the allure of coffee with a friend, sometimes it’s just a bad reality show and a comfy couch. Whatever it is, these are things that will keep me from doing the activity I enjoy and more importantly, need for health and fitness. So how do I get around that?

Accountability.

I love the idea of a training partner because then when we have a date to go for a run, I better be there or she’s left hanging. It’s a simple technique, but one that gets me out the door.

So how do I apply this to my writing? Easy. Say it with me now…Accountability.

When it comes to writing, I utilize a few strategies. The first is my awesome critique group The Easy Writers (great name, right?). We meet on the first and third Thursday of every month. If I’m going to have something to submit, I better sit my butt in my chair and write something. I’m not a big fan of not submitting, because I learn so much from these great people.

Another tool I use to stay accountable is the Wordbitches. I’m not sure how many of you know this, but Leanne, Trish and I started the Wordbitches as a way to produce words and keep each other accountable to doing just that. On Twitter we use the hashtag #wordbitches (creative, huh?) We post our word counts with the idea that a minimum of 500 a day is a good goal.  Some days it’s more.  Some days it’s less. But knowing that others are out there wondering how we’re doing is motivation.

So, if you’re like me and you need accountability this is an open invitation to become one with the Bitches. Tweet your goals, your word counts and really anything else writing related under the tag #wordbitches cause after all, we really are quite friendly.

Anyone have tips on what keeps them accountable?

As an FYI I used the word accountable/accountability only eight times in this post (huh, felt like more).