In order to succeed in life—both personally and professionally—an individual should have various qualities like talent, intelligence, perseverance, leadership, honesty, etc. However, one often underestimated yet important trait that stands at the core of sustained achievement is accountability. This is the main critical force that can turn plans into action, intentions into fruitful results, and dreams into reality.
Accountability is not just about taking responsibility for failures; it is about owning every step of the journey, learning from mistakes, and staying committed to showing improvement. It is about proactively managing responsibilities and making yourself content with the results—good or bad. In its true form, it is the accountability of the conscience rather than having a craze for heightened titles and prefixes.
Those who are ready to be accountable in life prove more successful than those who run away from audits and checks. Accountability is the cornerstone of success. When we hold ourselves accountable for our actions and decisions, we cultivate a sense of responsibility that guides our behaviour. By being accountable, we are likely to make informed choices, avoid mistakes, and refrain from engaging in wrongdoings. This mindset supports trust, credibility, and integrity, paving the way for personal and professional growth.
When we know that we will be held accountable for our actions, we are more inclined to act with integrity, make ethical decisions, and strive for excellence. By embracing accountability, we can build strong relationships, achieve our goals, and unlock our full potential.
From an officer to a peon in any organisation, accountability should be a primary concern for each one of them. An officer is supposed to assign jobs to the lower-rung officials based on their potential and capability, rather than stalling the workflow. Accountability in an organisation can’t be determined by the perseverance of one or a few officials. Therefore, if someone tries to mudsling you based on accountability, you should be aware enough to first be accountable to your job.
I would also like to share an example from my personal experience that highlights the importance of accountability. Once, I had to encounter a pharmacist whose medical shop is the only store in a nearby residential area, and people had to rely on his services, even for basic medicines. I have often seen him closing the store during prayer time and returning after a long delay, leaving women and elderly patients waiting outside in discomfort. While prayer is no doubt important, in such cases, his primary responsibility is to the patients. He should return promptly. Making patients wait, especially when no other medical help is nearby, is a serious matter of accountability.
These examples show that in every profession, fulfilling one’s duty with awareness and compassion is part of being truly accountable.
As enshrined in the Quran, one of the core beliefs in Islam is that every individual is accountable to Allah for their actions, intentions, and even their thoughts. Muslims believe that on the Day of Judgment, every deed—big or small—will be judged. This belief encourages constant self-reflection and personal responsibility.
Islam places a huge responsibility on those in positions of leadership. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said: “Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock” (Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim). This means that leaders, parents, teachers, and anyone in a position of influence must act justly and will be held accountable for how they treat others.
Islam encourages believers to hold themselves accountable before they are held accountable by Allah. This includes being honest in business and trade, fulfilling promises and responsibilities, and avoiding oppression, dishonesty, and harm to others. Every Muslim should be fair in their actions, especially when dealing with others, regardless of their relationship or status. This way, he may be able to do justice with others in this temporary world.
At last, we quote a verse from the Quran related to accountability: “Every soul will be (held) in pledge for its deeds.” (Surah Al-Muddaththir: 74:33)
The writers work at the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, Kashmir
Shah Farhan (sh*********@*****ac.in)
Umar Afzal Dar (um********@*****ac.in)