A lot of my thoughts revolve around the kind of friends I want in my life—scratch that—the kind of friends I need in my life. I need people who will hold me accountable, not just in one area but in all aspects of my life. As an entrepreneur, I need friends who will keep me accountable for the commitments I make, based on the potential they see in me, challenging me in ways I might not challenge myself. If I tell them I want to create a multi-million dollar company, I want them to ask, “What’s stopping you from making it a billion-dollar company?” I want to be challenged that way—I need those types of people around me. I need people in my life who match my hustle. What do I mean? If I’m creating 21 pieces of content a week, I want them to say, “Hey, I created 21 pieces this week too; let’s push for 25 next week, let’s ante up.” If I say I want to write a new book next year, I want them to start with me right now, setting the same goal. Accountability needs to be mutual. I need to be challenged.

When it comes to being married, I want friends who will hold me accountable if they see me straying, even in subtle ways. I call this the “second glance” test. Seeing a beautiful woman can’t be helped, but turning around to look again—now that’s where we cross the line. I need people who will remind me to cherish my wife: “When was the last time you bought her flowers? When did you last tell her you love her? When was the last time you did something she enjoys?” I need that kind of accountability in my life.

As a believer, a follower of Jesus Christ, accountability is essential. I need friends who will examine my character and ensure I’m being the person God calls me to be. I need encouragement, but I also need to be challenged. I need people who walk alongside me, pointing me back to the Word of God, asking questions that lead me deeper into the scriptures: “Did you know this?” or “Have you considered that?” Such probing questions should push me to dive into the Bible and discover more on my own. When it comes to our inner circle, those closest to us must hold us accountable. This is what true accountability means: to challenge, support, and encourage us to be our best selves spiritually, relationally, and professionally.

So, take a look at your circle and make sure the people closest to you are holding you accountable. If they aren’t, it might be time to make some changes.

God Bless The Entrepreneur.