12 Accountability Quotes Every Leader Needs to Hear

Accountability is when you accept responsibility for the consequences of your actions, words, and decisions. As a leader, not only must you exemplify the standard of personal accountability you expect in others, but you must be the one to hold your employees accountable.

For example, if they miss a deadline or step out of line, you have to be there to help them identify where they went wrong and then prompt them to put a plan together to prevent it from happening again. 

While this can seem intimidating, accountability in the workplace is not something leaders can avoid forever. These accountability quotes prove just that.

"It is not only what we do, but also what we do not do, for which we are accountable." - Moliere

"Exhibiting accountability over time is a gateway to trust. When we see someone acting with accountability, we gain the evidence we need to trust them." - Mike Erwin and Willys Devoll

"If you're going to be a leader, you're not going to please everybody. You have to hold people accountable, even if you have that moment of being uncomfortable." - Kobe Bryant

“When we fail to set boundaries and hold people accountable, we feel used and mistreated. This is why we sometimes attack who they are, which is far more hurtful than addressing a behavior or a choice.” - Brené Brown

"Failing to hold someone accountable is ultimately an act of selfishness." - Patrick Lencioni

"Being held accountable is an act of generosity and compassion. It is a gift that someone gives us to correct our wrongs, unlearn, and do better for the sake of our own growth. It might be uncomfortable, but it is worth the discomfort." - Minaa B.

"Leaders inspire accountability through their ability to accept responsibility before they place blame." - Courtney Lynch

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

"Accountability feels like an attack when you're not ready to acknowledge how your behaviors harm others." - Tamara Renaye

"Forgiveness and compassion are always linked: how do we hold people accountable for wrongdoing and yet at the same time remain in touch with their humanity enough to believe in their capacity to be transformed?” - Bell Hooks

"You're going to mess up. So instead of trying to be perfect, learn how to be accountable." - Whitney Goodman

“Once people have a clear idea of what decisions they should and should not be making, holding them accountable for decisions feels fair.” - Gary L. Neilson

Next Steps: Accountability is a Learnable Skill

If holding others accountable sounds challenging, that's because it can depend on the situation and individual. In those situations, remember: accountability isn't meant to be a punishment; it's meant to be an opportunity for learning and growth. To learn how to act on this, consider investing in a training program or professional coaching package that develops your skills, tools, and confidence in a hands-on and supportive environment.