What does it mean to commit?

I have come to notice that a lot of people really want a successful career, deep relationships, financial freedom or other changes in their lives, but sometimes there can be a gap between wanting an outcome and committing to the actions that may help us move towards it.

Commitment doesn’t guarantee that we’ll get everything we want. Circumstances, opportunities and other people can all influence the outcome. But it can be useful to ask ourselves: what am I prepared to do consistently to support the change I want to make?

The difference between wanting something and actively working towards it can often be found in the degree to which we are able and willing to commit our time, energy and attention.

Commitment and motivation

Commitment is about how much you are motivated to get the desired results. It can involve continuing to take action even when motivation itself fluctuates.

If it is a deeper, more loving relationship with your partner you want, then how motivated are you to play your part in working towards this? Are you willing to find ways to be more loving, communicate openly and invest time and attention in the relationship?

Of course, the success of a relationship doesn’t depend on one person alone, but considering what you can contribute can be a useful place to start.

Commitment and self-belief

Commitment can also be influenced by the amount of self-belief and confidence you have in yourself and your ability to do things successfully.

Self-doubt doesn’t mean you can’t be committed to something. You may not feel completely confident when you begin, but recognising your strengths and what you are capable of can help you continue working towards something that matters to you.

Commitment and self-discipline
Commitment is also about self-discipline. Commitment begins with a decision and the determination to continue, backed by discipline.

Self-discipline can help keep you moving forward when motivation is low or things don’t go your way. There may be times when other demands compete for your attention or progress feels slower than you hoped. Having a clear reason for what you are doing and deciding what actions you can realistically maintain may help you keep going.

Commitment and challenge

And lastly, commitment is about how much you are willing to challenge yourself. Challenge yourself to move through obstacles, challenge yourself to move forward, challenge your self-limiting beliefs and consider how much weight you want to give to other people’s negative views about you.

This doesn’t mean every obstacle can simply be overcome through determination. Sometimes plans need to change, additional support is needed or circumstances mean a goal is no longer realistic. Commitment can also involve recognising this and deciding how you want to adapt.

What are you prepared to commit?

Now, are you prepared and willing to make some of the trade-offs involved in working towards what you want - perhaps studying, learning, practising or consistently making time for it? What effort are you realistically prepared to make, and where do you want to focus your attention?

You don’t have to commit 100% of yourself to every goal. But if something genuinely matters to you, consider what meaningful commitment to it looks like in your own life.

What could you commit to doing consistently that would help you take the next step towards something that matters to you?