What are you committed to?
Commitment is a big word! And sometimes it’s a scary one. But it is worth exploring. So how about it: What are you committed to? Let’s find out in today’s #PointstoPonder.
What’s in your tool belt?
When you hear the word commitment, what do you think? Does it bring up an image of something you are dedicated to or something (or someone) you love? Or do you feel a heaviness in your body as you picture an obligation or a responsibility that restricts your freedom?
Either way, most of us struggle with commitment in some form or fashion. You know the story well I bet: You keep postponing starting a new wellness plan by finding excuses to delay healthy eating or working out. (That’s mine!) Or you may avoid finishing your to do list at work or home, leaving things you could have done to another day.
But what would it be like if you looked at commitment as an instrument to help you see something through to the end, not just halfway? How can commitment be a tool in your toolbelt?
Try these steps
No. 1: Decide what you want to commit to
When I ask you what challenge you want to tackle, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Make note of what pops as I ask the question. It could be something about your environment, like organizing your home or office. Or is it something more internal, like changing your habit of blaming others for what’s happening in your life? Maybe you have several ideas coming into your thoughts all at once. Give yourself some time to decide which area is your top priority. Then, ask yourself, how will you know when ready to move forward in this commitment?
No. 2: Create a plan
Committing to a change is easy to say at first. But to ensure your focus and ongoing attention, you must have a plan in place. Here’s an example: This weekend, I created a 50-day plan to help me in my wellness goals. I set out daily actions that I want to take, and I put it all on a one-page sheet of paper. (I’m a very visual person, so I need reminders I can see to keep me on track.)
What does a plan look like for you? Think about what structure and resources you need. What kind of accountability will help you? And here’s the critical part we often miss: What steps will you take when obstacles arise that seem to block your path?
No. 3: Visualize your future
To keep you motivated about what’s to come, paint a visual or word picture of what your future will look like as you live out your commitment. Envision how it will feel as you are moving forward. What will be your milestones along the way? And how will you celebrate your dedication?
A word to meditate on
Psalm 37:5 says: “Commit everything you do to God; trust Him to help you do it, and He will!” What a great verse to meditate on this week as you explore how you define commitment and how you live it out.