December can be a very busy month, but it’s also an ideal time to look back on the past year and think about what worked, what didn’t and some areas you’d like to change in 2026. After reading our last article, maybe you’ve identified one key goal you’d like to focus on and you’re motivated to get started!

But if you’re like most of us, you start a goal with the best of intentions and then life gets in the way and your efforts fizzle out. It can be difficult to hold ourselves accountable for our own goals. That’s where an accountability partner can make all the difference.

So, what exactly is an accountability partner?

Simply put, it’s someone who acts as a coach, a cheerleader and a confidant to help you achieve a goal. And the benefits of having an accountability partner are numerous:

• Provides support and encouragement
• Breaks you out of your comfort zone
• Stops the cycle of procrastination
• Keeps you motivated when the going gets tough

But not all accountability partners are created equal. You want to look for someone who has some specific characteristics:

• Encouraging
• Sees great potential in you
• Challenging
• Compassionate (but not TOO compassionate!)
• Willing to give constructive feedback
• Gives you a break when setbacks happen and gets you back on track

Maybe you can think of someone who fits the bill. Or maybe you have no idea who can fill such large shoes. Working with a coach, like Leah M Joppy and Associates, provides a source of motivation and encouragement, while also helping you create a realistic action plan and keeping you accountable.

Ready to say goodbye to 2025 and start the New Year with renewed purpose and enthusiasm? Call us at 301-670-0051 or email us at leah@lmja.com to learn more!