Change is easy. Sustaining change is hard.

The old saying is “change is hard.” But, actually, it’s not. For instance, I’ll bet you changed your socks today. Maybe you changed your wireless provider recently.

Sustaining positive change is hard, especially with our deeply ingrained habits. We’ve all experienced “flash in the pan” solutions. We start a new workout routine. We vow to become more disciplined. We promise to stop procrastinating.

It never sticks, though, does it? It’s always just a matter of time until we’re back in the same old groove.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Sustained change is possible.

In fact, the formula is shockingly simple:

Envision the future state you aspire to.
Clearly articulate why you want to make this change.
Identify the steps that will get you from where you are to where you want to be.
Choose a date when your vision will be reality.
Make a plan for executing the first step. Set aside time on your calendar.
SHARE ALL OF THIS WITH AN ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER, AND AGREE TO A SCHEDULE FOR CHECKUPS!

Even though the formula is simple, it is difficult to execute. And here is the reason why: most people skip step #6.

And why do most people skip step #6? Well, there are a couple of reasons.

First, sharing your plans with someone else is a major commitment. After all, if you make plans, but don’t tell anyone, you can change your mind–give up, throw it all out the window–and no one will know. But once you tell someone, it is embarrassing to later say to that person, “I didn’t do it.”

Second, finding the right accountability partner is really hard. The best accountability partners have a unique mix of traits. They must be a step removed from your situation so as to maintain a global perspective. They must be invested in you as a person, but not invested in any particular outcome. Think about a key staff member; even the most open-minded person would find it difficult to offer truly unbiased advice, especially when the best possible option might be to eliminate a program under his or her purview.

Obviously, a great accountability partner has to have the “bandwidth” to make you a high priority in their life. Time, energy, and emotional capacity all play a factor.

Because accountability partners are so difficult to find, the Wizards offer two solutions for nonprofit leaders looking to create sustainable change.

Have a specific initiative that you just can’t seem to make progress on? Check out Accountability Wizard.

Want to plug into a community of like-minded executives focused on creating enduring change? Check out Wizard Round Tables.

Have more questions? Want a free consultation?

Better yet, ready to get started?

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