The best formula to build Commitment

As part of my new year’s theme I’ve decided to focus on one word: Commitment. I blogged about it on my first post of 2016. I recall this word coming to me during a time of prayer and meditation. Commitment is a word that is present in everyone. We all make decisions and commitment is the intrinsic muscle that allows us to keep the course. Commitment is non-negotiable. It doesn’t change based on the results of a decision. Commitment isn’t always easy but it is one of the greatest standards of leadership.

Over this last month I’ve learned much about the definition of commitment and believe there is a formula that can help anyone stay committed to their decisions, goals and dreams.

Discipline

Discipline can be synonymous with restraint and self-control. For many people it provides an image of suppression which can be both good and bad. I tend to focus on the positive and believe discipline along with motivation help us stay the course. In many ways it creates an environment of clear direction.

I’ve seen the fruits of discipline play out in my life when I was young and even now…

I see discipline in my life when I wake up every morning and read my bible to meditate on God’s truth. 

I see discipline in my life when I wake up extra early to go on a morning run three times a week.

I see discipline in my life when I take an hour of the day to read a book that will help me both in my personal and professional life.

Accountability 

When I think of accountability I think of responsibility. We answer by our own actions. I think most of us were first introduced to the notion of accountability in our youth with our parents. I can still remember them keeping me straight on what was expected of me. I do the same with my children. But accountability is not so much the reinforcement of rules as much as it is the empowerment of ones ability to keeping the course. To staying committed. To doing what we are supposed to do.

Even as an adult, and even as a leader, I still find value in accountability. Every week I have a set of friends who will check on me and confirm my direction with decisions I make. I do the same for them. They are not mentors but rather accountability partners that provide encouragement and support. To me, they reflect the beauty of Proverbs 27:17:

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

Discipline and Accountability will help you keep your Commitments. In reality they can help you establish your new year theme and achieve your goals.

How are you building discipline and who is keeping you accountable?