There’s a gap that exists between knowing and doing, between learning and taking action.
Think about it…
We all know what it takes to build a healthy body. Eat better. Cut back on the junk. Stay hydrated. Move daily. Make sleep a priority.
Knowing isn’t the issue. It’s the doing that trips us up. Here’s another example…
You read an incredible book about building a solid morning ritual and all the benefits that come with it. Inspired, you pick up more books on crafting the perfect morning. You binge-watch videos of gurus unpacking their routines. You consume all the knowledge you can about morning rituals… but actually practicing one consistently? That’s where you get stuck.
Again, the knowing isn’t the problem. It’s the doing.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
The truth is, as much as we want to believe we can hold ourselves accountable to anything, going it alone is tough. We set our goals, tie them to our purpose, and back them with a solid “why.” We block out time, get intentional, and start strong. But despite our best efforts, life happens. Excuses creep in. Limiting beliefs take over. And slowly, our accountability to ourselves slips away.
How do we close the gap? We find others to help hold us accountable.
Now, let me be clear—when I say “hold you accountable,” I don’t mean finding someone to catch you when you fall short or punish you for missing the mark. This isn’t about shame or discipline. True accountability is about growth. It’s about surrounding yourself with people who remind you of your goals, encourage you to stay committed, and celebrate your wins. Accountability is rooted in care.
When you have those people in your corner, the doing becomes a little easier. They’ll be there to help you take action when things get tough. They’ll cheer you on from the sidelines—or better yet, stand beside you on the field, battling alongside you.
Because accountability isn’t a solo endeavor. It’s a team sport.
Today’s Takeaway
Find your team. Let them remind you what’s possible. And together, close the gap between knowing and doing.
Ready for more?
If you liked this, then you might be interested in my new book, Living Life Daily. Designed to motivate and challenge you every day, this book offers 365 thought-provoking prompts that will push you to reflect, take action, and embrace meaningful change. Whether you’re striving to set clearer goals, build resilient habits, or cultivate a winning mindset, each daily entry is packed with wisdom and practical advice to help you take small steps toward big results. Find it here!
You’ll also get massive value out of the Grit Meets Growth podcast that I share with Chris Cathers. It’s for people who want more out of life… at work, at home, in their relationships, and in their health and wellness. Find it here or on your favorite podcast platform! – John