The power of accountability, consistency through clarity, fading feedback falls flat

One Quote. One Framework. One Challenge.
Just 2 minutes a week.

One Quote

"Responsibility equals accountability, accountability equals ownership, and a sense of ownership is the most powerful thing a team or organization can have.”
- Pat Summitt

Pat Summitt led the University of Tennessee Lady Vols to 8 national titles and mentored generations of leaders.
Pat’s legacy was built on grit, discipline, and empowering players through accountability.

One Framework

3 C’s of accountability
Clarity. Commitment. Consequences.

Why it works: Accountability breaks down when expectations are vague, follow-through is optional, or outcomes are disconnected from performance. The 3 C’s bring simple structure to your leadership by reinforcing accountability through alignment, consistency, and shared standards.

What it is:

• Clarity: Everyone knows what’s expected, when it’s due, and how success will be measured. No wiggle room, no guessing.
  Ask yourself: If I asked them to repeat it back, would their clarity match mine?
  

• Commitment: Accountability starts with a clear “yes.” When someone agrees to own it, they’re not just complying—they’re committing.
  Ask yourself: Did they express true commitment or just passive agreement?
  

• Consequences: There’s follow-through. Praise when things go right, course correction when they don’t. Without consequences, commitment fades fast.
  Ask yourself: Am I being consistent in applying consequences?

One Challenge

You know that piece of feedback you’ve been holding onto for the “right” time? Deliver it this week.

Every day you delay, the story gets blurrier and the impact fades.
Timely, candid feedback - especially the hard kind - is the most respectful move you can make.

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Until the next shift,

David Goldsmith
Founder, DGTM
[email protected] | www.dgtm.us

P.S. This newsletter is inspired by James Clear’s 3-2-1 Thursday, which I’ve looked forward to every week for years. Check it out here!