“What are your top three goals?” I asked.

“Well, we need to control our costs. That’s one. We have to control our inventory. And we need to improve the morale in our team,” Dale replied.

“Those are worthy pursuits, but what’s the goal? How will you know when you get there?”

“I knew you were going to pin me down. You always want me to be more specific.”

“Why do you think I always press you?” I continued.

“I guess, if I’m not specific, you can’t hold me accountable,” Dale smiled.

“So, the first part of accountability has to do with the specifics of the goal.”