Summary

Have you ever set a goal to better yourself, only to have a sudden crisis—like a sick family member or a flooded basement—pull the rug out from under you? Most of us abandon our goals the moment things get difficult because we think accountability means being perfect. But real growth happens in the pivot. In this episode of the Arise, Women of God podcast, host Tamara K. Anderson joins Wendi Christensen and Kari Anjewierden to answer the high-stakes question: How to hold myself accountable when life falls apart.

We move from the "all or nothing" trap to a resilient, mission-driven mindset. Kari shares the importance of "Pre-Planning for Distractions"—anticipating the adversary's attacks so they lose their power to stop you. Wendi opens up about a literal flood in her home and how giving herself permission to eat sushi and watch TV instead of cleaning was actually an act of spiritual strength, not failure. We also explore the Daniel Strategy, showing how Daniel and his friends stayed true to their mission in a foreign land by leaning on team accountability. If you are ready to stop measuring your "Gap" (failures) and start celebrating your "Gain" (progress), this episode will give you the crisis emergency kit you need.

Episode Takeaways

1. Pre-Plan for the Adversary: Distractions are guaranteed. If you plan for them (e.g., "If I can't find my shoes, I will do this instead"), they lose their power to derail you. Expect the mental chatter and have a rebuttal ready.
2. The Sunday Report: Accountability isn't just about checking a box; it's about reporting to God. Tamara shares how a weekly "Sunday Report" helps her celebrate the 4 days she showed up rather than shaming herself for the 1 day she missed.
3. The Flood Pivot: Wendi's story of her home flooding teaches us that sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is pause, eat cake, and rest. Resilience isn't about pushing through trauma; it's about pivoting with grace.
4. The Daniel Strategy: Daniel didn't stand alone; he had Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Accountability is a team sport. When you are in a "foreign land" (a hard season), you need friends who share your values to help you stand firm.

Resources

Need a "Crisis Emergency Kit" for your mindset? Download our FREE Guide to Goal Setting. It features the "Don't Quit Emergency Kit" to help you pivot without giving up. 👉 Download the Guide Here: https://www.womenwarriorsoflight.com/offers/WyaLn2gS/checkout

Need a team like Daniel had? Join our Accountability Group! https://www.womenwarriorsoflight.com/join-now

Reflection Questions

1. What is one distraction the adversary usually uses to stop you? (e.g., "I can't find my shoes," "I'm too tired"). What is your pre-planned response?
2. Do you measure the "Gap" (what you didn't do) or the "Gain" (what you did do)? How would your week look different if you celebrated the "Gain"?
3. Have you ever experienced a "flood" (crisis) where you tried to push through instead of pivot? How can you show yourself grace next time?
4. Who are your "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego"? Do you have a team holding you up, or are you trying to stand alone?

Transcript

https://www.womenwarriorsoflight.com/blog/how-to-hold-myself-accountable-for-goals