“Accountability” has become so overused that people flinch when the word is mentioned. The response becomes like the abused puppy dog who flinches at any movement by the owner. The implication when we tell someone they are accountable is that they are now “the wringable neck.” It also assumes we can make someone accountable. No one will be accountable for anything they are not willing to be accountable for. We can start by recognizing that accountability is a choice. Yes, we can use carrots and sticks to drive that choice, but those are only short-term solutions.
Instead of thinking about how to hold someone accountable, think about how you can help them choose to be “able” and how to make that choice for him or herself.