If one word could single handedly determine success, what is that word? It is commitment. You can have purpose. You can have vision. You can have heart. But you need commitment to follow through. Commitment requires discipline and discipline helps you to change your habits.
I want to share a few truths about commitments – truths that will unlock what success means to you. Truths that will align your actions with your purpose. Truths that will help you reach your commitments and ultimately, your impact.
1. Know “what” you are committed to – both big and small. Sounds simple, I know. But in practice, it requires intention. Note that we are always committed to something, whether intentionally or unintentionally by our actions. We often say we are committed to something, but our actions tell a different story. What do your actions say about your commitments? Are they the commitments you want? Take time to consider your commitments in each area of your life: personal, professional, and spiritual.
2. Make sure your goals align with your commitments. Yes, we need to know “what” we are committed to before we create our goals and action items. Why? Well, our true commitments are what drives us to our purpose. A commitment is real, authentic and comes from the heart. A goal is a strategy to achieve your commitment. Know your commitments and build your goals to achieve and embrace them.
3. Embody your commitments. Write out your commitments every day. Write them in a journal. If you do not journal, write them in a notebook. Make your commitments begin with “I am.” “I am a commitment to…,” for example. Speak your commitments every day, multiple times a day. Speak your commitments before walking into your office, before a meeting, before you make a major decision. Always consider your commitments before you make a major decision. Then, at the end of the day, assess how your day unfolded against your commitments. Did you miss the mark? What needs to shift next time to meet it?
4. Truly, I miss the mark often…but it serves as a gentle reminder of the habits that continue to evolve and are a work in progress. Embodying your commitments will help you follow through.
Release commitments that no longer serve your purpose. Once you are innately aware of what you are committed to, release those commitments that no longer align and serve your greater purpose. You may need to close a door so a new one can open. Commitments require sacrifice. What do you need to sacrifice to embrace your commitments?
Finally, remember that commitments require courage. Courage to stand up for what is most important to you. Courage to make the changes you need to make to live a life with no regrets. Courage to focus on what matters most. We are often pulled in many directions…which of those directions no longer serves you and your purpose?
Awareness, alignment and following your commitments results in transformation from the old to the new. From the less important to most important. From living a life that pushes you to living a life that pulls you.
If you can follow the few principles about commitments above, you will start to focus on those things that matter most to you. You will see transformation in each area of your life that you have a commitment about.
If I can ever help you unpack your commitments, I would be honored to partner with you on this most important journey. You may contact me at [email protected].
Wishing you an abundance of health, strength, peace, and success!
