Top tips for finding your perfect online accountability partner
It’s time to cut to the chase, staying consistent can be tough. Whether it’s making a start on a new project, trialling a new workout routine, or tackling the one task that somehow never leaves the to-do list, life always has a funny way of getting in the way.
This is where accountability partners come in. Accountability partners are an essential part of the body-doubling productivity technique.
If you’ve never heard of an accountability partner before, don’t worry! We’re going to look at what an accountability partner is and how to find an online accountability partner that works for you.
How does an online accountability partner work?
Your accountability partner is someone who is never there to nag, judge, or add unnecessary pressure. Instead, their purpose is to support, encourage and act as a gentle reminder of the goals you’ve set for yourself.
Instead of meeting up in person, you’ll meet with your online accountability partner, usually through an online meeting like Zoom, Google Meet, or Facetime. Although, some people also prefer to check in with their accountability partners via messages.
Your online accountability partner can be someone you already know, or it could even be in a virtual co-working group like The Coaching Circle Community. In our co-working sessions, we work in 20-minute blocks followed by a check-in, where some people move on to another task or choose to continue working on a bigger task.
Tips for finding an accountability partner online
Once you decide that body doubling and having an online accountability partner is for you, it’s time to find your match.
Get to know your needs
The fact that you’re taking the time to research accountability partners shows that you mean business. Well done you! With this in mind, use this time to reflect on what you’d like to take away from the experience.
What goals would you like to achieve with an accountability partner? They could be big or small, ranging from working on a deadline to dedicating time for self-care.
How often do you want to check in with your accountability partner? It could be daily, weekly, bi-weekly, or even monthly if you’re working on a long-term goal and that works better for you.
How do you like to track your progress? Do you prefer a more gentle, supportive approach, or would you prefer having deadlines or goal-tracking tools in place?
Do you want an accountability partner with goals similar to yours? Sometimes, people benefit from having an accountability partner with the same goal, whereas some people just need someone who understands the importance of accountability.
Answering these questions will help you build a profile of your ideal accountability partner.
Know which accountability partner characteristics to look for
An effective accountability partner should be someone who understands and respects your goals. It’s not essential to share the exact same goals as your accountability partner, but having similar values and mindset can definitely help you get more from the experience. When looking for an accountability partner, ask yourself:
Do they share a growth mindset similar to yours? Are they invested in their personal progress like you are?
Can you rely on them? Are they consistent?
Will they encourage you with kindness and support you rather than criticise or judge?
Look for your online accountability partner
There are plenty of communities and spaces online where you can find a virtual online accountability partner. You just need to know where to look!
Holly Clarke Coaching: 1-2-1 coaching through personalised Zoom calls and email accountability check-ins.
The Coaching Circle Community: Online group co-working and body doubling sessions every Thursday via Zoom.
Reddit: Connect with like-minded people looking for a virtual accountability partner on subreddits like r/GetMotivatedBuddies and r/accountability.
Facebook groups: Do a little Facebook search for accountability groups dedicated to your goals. For instance, ‘exercise accountability group', ‘accountability group for writers’ and ‘small business accountability partners’.
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and reach out for help when finding an accountability partner. Most people in these groups and communities are in the same boat as you, so you are not alone!
Find your online accountability partner with confidence
Hello! Thank you so much for reading and learning about online accountability partners with me. My name is Holly and I’ve been exactly where you are.
If you’d like to stay on top of your goals and rekindle the spark within you, I offer coaching and 1-2-1 accountability sessions with supportive check-ins, as well as weekly group co-working calls through The Coaching Circle Community via Zoom.
Whether you’d like to learn more about accountability, see if I’m a good fit for your goals, or join The Coaching Circle community, please email me at hollyclarkecoaching@gmail.com or get in touch via the form at the bottom of this page.
