And how accountability turned a simple habit into a life-changing shift
Something powerful hit me this week. I was reflecting on how much my life has changed since starting The Accountability Club, and it all started with something as simple as a to-do list.
It might sound like a small thing, but trust me:
the way we organise our time and priorities has a huge impact on our wellbeing, mindset, and overall sense of achievement. And for a long time, my to-do list was quietly draining me.
Before joining The Accountability Club, I’d write endless to-do lists with no real thought behind them. I’d pile on task after task, big things, small things, urgent things, not-so-urgent things - all with the same level of urgency nonetheless.
Everything felt like it had to be done now, and if it wasn’t, I’d feel like a failure.
It became a never-ending cycle:
Add more things to the list
Feel overwhelmed looking at the list
Avoid the list
Judge myself for not doing enough
Add more things to the list anyway
It wasn’t that I was lazy or unmotivated; I just hadn’t set any boundaries with myself. My list was unrealistic, unfiltered, and unachievable. Looking at it didn’t inspire action, it only reminded me of what I wasn’t doing. And that feeling? Exhausting.
Everything started to shift when I began using The Accountability Club to track my tasks. Instead of jotting everything down on my phone or scribbling in a notebook, I began sharing my to-do list in the club.
And here’s the game-changer: when you know someone’s going to ask you whether or not you did something, you start to think more carefully about what actually belongs on your list.
In the club, we ask the big (sometimes dreaded) question:
“Why”
It’s not about shame. It’s about honest reflection. And when you know that question is coming, you start to get really intentional with what you commit to. You pause. You ask:
Is this actually important?
Is this realistic today?
Is this a priority right now?
That pause changed everything for me.
I realised that I don’t have unlimited time, energy, or mental space, so my to-do list can’t be unlimited either.
Now, I’m selective. I only add tasks that feel achievable, necessary, and aligned with what matters most. I’ve even developed a daily rhythm I swear by: Three Musts a Day
Each day, I choose just three things I must complete. They’re realistic, intentional, and they set the tone for my day. And when I tick them off? I actually feel like I’m getting somewhere.
Gone are the days of overwhelming task lists and self-imposed pressure. My list now feels like a supportive tool, not a weapon of self-criticism.
Yes, there are still things I put off (looking at you, tip run!), but now I can separate what needs to be done from what can wait, without the guilt.
In one of my coaching sessions, my coach said something that really stuck with me:
"You're putting better energy into the world."
And honestly? I feel it.
Before, I was living in a constant state of pressure and disappointment. Now, I feel grounded, motivated, and most importantly, aligned with how I want to live.
Tasks are getting done. I feel good about what I’m achieving. And in turn, good things seem to be happening more often. I believe in myself more. I trust my own follow-through. That energy shift? It’s real.
All of this has made me realise: a to-do list isn’t just a productivity tool. It’s a reflection of how we treat ourselves, how we set boundaries, and how we honour our time.
Used intentionally, a to-do list can transform your life.
Used mindlessly, it can seriously damage your self-esteem and mental health.
So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly behind, maybe it’s time to stop blaming yourself… and start rethinking your list.
If this resonates, come join us in The Accountability Club. You’ll find the structure, support, and community to help you build better habits — not just for productivity, but for life.
And who knows? Something as simple as writing a better to-do list might just be your first step towards everything aligning.
Founder
With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, Sunil has built, scaled, and explored more than 50 businesses across diverse industries, including two successful exits. He started the Accountability Club because he personally needed accountability, and saw the potential in building a space where others could find the same.
As founder, he leads the vision and direction of the community, creating a place where entrepreneurs and goal-driven individuals connect, support each other, and make real progress. His passion for building communities and inspiring growth is at the heart of everything the club stands for.
Day to day, Sunil steers the evolution of the club and fosters an environment of accountability, connection, and action. His goal is simple: to help members follow through on what matters most to them.
It was October 2024. I was working full time as a Group IT Director in London, helping my wife with her growing business, and juggling a few side projects. On paper, it looked like I was winning at life. Successful. Busy. Productive. But deep down, I knew something was missing.
Sunil Kumar
Founder
Let me start by saying this: I cannot recommend Atomic Habits by James Clear enough. It’s one of those rare books that doesn’t just inspire, it actually changes how you show up in your life.
Sunil Kumar
Founder
