Accountability Quote by Sidney Dekker
““forward-looking accountability.”2 Accountability that is backward-looking (often the kind in trials or lawsuits) tries to find a scapegoat, to blame and shame an individual for messing up. But accountability is about looking ahead. Not only should accountability acknowledge the mistake and the harm resulting from it, it should lay out the opportunities (and responsibilities!) for making changes so that the probability of such harm happening again goes down.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Safety Differently, 2018
Accountability should be forward‑looking, fixing systems and preventing future harm, not just assigning blame.
In simple terms: Focus on future solutions, not past blame.
Key Takeaway
Implement proactive safeguards.
Themes
safety
responsibility
learning
Mood
practical
analytical
Type
instructional
professional
When to use this quote
- workplace safety
- project management
- policy development
- legal compliance
Key Concepts
Systems thinking
risk management
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you embed forward‑looking accountability in your team?
- What obstacles might you face when changing accountability practices?
A Different Perspective
May be difficult to shift culture from blame to learning.
