In my online dictionary Commitment means:
- the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity, etc. “the company’s commitment to quality”
- a pledge or undertaking. Plural noun: commitments “I cannot make such a commitment at the moment”
- an engagement or obligation that restricts freedom of action. “business commitments”
Our ability to make any kind of meaningful difference in the lives of others requires commitment.
To live authentically, to be true to ourselves, we must be present, vulnerable, open and honest. This takes commitment because it’s not always easy.
To be connected with others we must reach out, share, give and be available. This takes commitment because it’s not always easy.
To make gains in our businesses and grow exponentially we must be focused in the right ways, take the right steps and learn as we go…failing and pivoting on the path to greatness. This takes commitment because it’s definitely not easy. In fact, it’s one of the most challenging decisions we make…to stay in the game of growing and scaling a business despite setbacks, obstacles, overwhelm and just plain life getting in the way.
But if you really want to build a business or enterprise that leaves a lasting legacy, one that you’re proud of, commitment is non-negotiable.
Every great leader, not only demonstrated courage and resilience, but had an unwavering commitment to stay in the game…no matter what.
Unfortunately, what I see happening too often with women entrepreneurs and leaders is that convenience trumps commitment.
That despite our deep desires and the rigor we put into our work, there are a thousand things we will put ahead of our dreams that stop us from staying the course. Things such as:
…the needs of others
…the need to be perfect
…putting off hard choices and decisions
…delaying the hard things that have to get done
…fears and insecurities
…stories and excuses
It’s not convenient to be committed. It’s not convenient to say “no” to other people’s agenda. It’s not convenient to harness every resource we have to take massive leaps and stake everything on what we claim we want.
It’s not convenient to be “all in”.
But our dreams and high impact goals won’t happen without commitment, without our ability to fully focus on what’s most important to us, put that first and stick with it no matter what story or excuse rears it’s inconvenient head.
If you want an assessment of whether or not you’re truly committed, there’s a great book titled The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership which says “that commitment is a statement of what is”. You know what your commitment is by the results you get. If you look at yourself right now, whatever you have is what you’ve been committed to. So if you want something different than what you have, change your commitment.
Because you’re worth it.
You deserve to live the life you want and thrive in your business.
Think of your commitment today. Are you living a committed life or a life driven by convenience?
Only you know for sure.
Quote of the Week:
I am resolved to write, write, and write. Nothing can turn me away from a path I have definitely set myself to follow.
~ Anaiis Nin
With heart and brilliance,
Noreen