Lecture Notes: The Law of Countability

Introduction

• Law of Countability (Law Number Nine): Teammates must be able to count on one another.
• Definition: Accountability is the ability to count on someone when and where it counts.
• Emphasized the importance of coining the term "countability."

Characteristics of Countability

• Attributes of Countable People:
  • Faithful
  • Loyal
  • Character
  • Dependable
  • Flexible
  • Consistency
  • Trustworthy
• Attributes of Uncountable People:
  • Unreliable
  • Dishonest
  • Selfish

Components of Accountability

• Character:
  • Essential for being countable.
  • Aligns with inner qualities; "If you wouldn’t follow yourself, why should anyone else?"
• Competence:
  • Ability to perform at the required level.
  • Character alone isn’t sufficient; competence is necessary to be countable.
• Consistency:
  • Regularly demonstrating character and competence.

Importance of Countability in Teams

• Law of the Inner Circle:
  • Those closest to you determine your level of success.
  • Inner circle must score a "10" in countability.
• Selection of Inner Circle:
  • Ensure they have character, competence, and consistency.
  • Importance of screening members for these traits to avoid future problems.

Inspirational Example: Coach Bill McCartney

• Strategy:
  • Players dedicated games to someone they loved/respected, enhancing commitment and performance.
  • Accountability to someone meaningful drove superior performance.

Personal Reflection on Accountability

• Personal Accountability:
  • Author reflects on his own countability to his organization, readers, speaking audiences, and family.
  • Defined success as being most respected by those closest to him.
  • Emphasized accountability to God.

Concluding Thoughts

• Challenge:
  • Self-assessment on character, competence, and consistency.
• Final Reflection:
  • Personal victories often center around leading oneself effectively.
• Call to Action:
  • Evaluate your team and inner circle on their countability.
  • Strive for personal accountability especially in leadership roles.