David Goggins, Author of Can’t Hurt Me, Shares a Powerful Practice for Personal Accountability

Meaningful change starts with meaningful self-reflection. And what better way to self-reflect than with an actual mirror? 

‍

Intrigued? Keep reading to learn how to turn your bathroom mirror into an agent of change.  

What Is an Accountability Mirror?

An Accountability Mirror is a simple yet powerful tool that can help you stay on track to meet your goals and create new habits. 

‍

Here’s how to make one: choose a mirror in your home that you see daily (like in the bathroom or entryway). Next, grab a pack of sticky notes and write down your short- and long-term goals. 

‍

Take a moment to recommit to each goal whenever you look in the mirror. Goggins recommends asking yourself three questions during this reflection exercise: 

1. How do you feel now, compared to how you think you’ll feel once you accomplish your goal?
2. How will you feel if you don’t try to achieve this goal? 
3. What is your priority today, this week, this month, and this year to achieve your goal?

‍

Move the corresponding sticky note to the side each time you achieve a goal. Keeping them on the mirror will remind you how much you have accomplished so far! 

Facing the Person in the Mirror

An Accountability Mirror is a powerful reminder that you are the only person who must answer for your choices and accomplishments. 

‍

Whether you’re grappling with a decision, striving to reach a new milestone, or working to make a new habit stick, you alone have the power to create meaningful change and dig deep to persevere.

Strategies for Meaningful Self-Reflection

Make the most of your Accountability Mirror with these three strategies: 

1. Acknowledge Your Strengths and Weaknesses

The root of the word accountability is the word account. As you look at your reflection and the goals you’ve set, take inventory of your strengths and weaknesses.  

‍

It can be tempting to downplay both, but honesty is crucial to success. This exercise will encourage you to lean on your strengths and pinpoint your weaknesses for improvement. 

2. Recognize That It Won’t Be Easy

Self-reflection can be brutal. If you start to feel overwhelmed or discouraged, remind yourself that great struggle can lead to powerful change. Stick with the process, and regularly remind yourself of how far you’ve come—not just how far you have to go! 

3. Pace Yourself

Personal accountability and growth are a marathon, not a sprint. There’s no need to cover your entire mirror with sticky notes (you won’t be able to see your reflection anymore if you do!). Instead, start with a few, then add a few more as you reach your goals. 

‍

Ready to create your Accountability Mirror? Share one sticky note you’ll be adding! Tweet it out using #CantHurtMe. 

‍