Turn Your Promises into Commitments

Step 15:

What is the difference between a promise and a commitment? A promise is a statement of intent. A commitment is a promise that is going to be kept no matter what. In the no matter what, I exclude illegal and immoral things. Commitment comes out of character and leads to conviction.

Can you imagine what kind of a world it would be if no one made a commitment to one another? What would happen to relationships between

•  spouses? employers and employees? 
• parents and children?
•  students and teachers?
•  buyers and sellers?

 Uncommitted relationships are pretty shallow and hollow. They are a matter of convenience and are temporary. Nothing lasting has ever been created without commitment. 

Commitment says, "I am predictable in the unpredictable future."

 Many people confuse commitment with confinement. That really is not true. Commitment does not take away freedom; it actually gives more freedom because it gives a sense of security.

The most important commitment we ever make is to our values. That is why it is imperative to have the right value system. For example, if I committed myself to support a leader who later becomes a drug dealer, do I continue my commitment? Not at all. 

Commitment leads to enduring relationships through thick and thin. It shows in a person's personality and relationships.