Let’s talk about commitment. When is the last time you fully committed to something 100%? We tend to think of commitment as something long-term like a marriage or course of study. Commitment for me is really about committing in the moment to our decisions, to the work we are doing, to the conversation we are having. Of course it is also about the long-term stuff too and I think if we are committed to each and every action then the longer-term stuff takes care of itself.

For example, you may be committed to your marriage but what about committing every day to small acts of kindness for the one you love? What about committing every day to give 100%, to hold back nothing and to be you?

Something magical really does happen when we commit, especially when it comes to making decisions. That’s why I love this quote by William Murray:

“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too.

All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favour all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would have come his way.

Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now.”

And why I also believe there are no right or wrong decisions – simply different outcomes which most of the time are completely uncertain anyway.

We’re not good at committing in our everyday actions though. We are often flitting from one thing another and fixed on something long-term without being fully present with what is right in front of us. If we could only learn to do that – really adopt the attitude that “whatever is in front of me is the most important thing” – so if that’s a conversation or that’s a presentation you’re preparing or if it’s a dinner you are cooking or a skill you are learning. If we can commit and give 100% the outcome is always going to be positive, effective and maybe even unexpected.

So commit! Be present with every single thing. Then start focusing on your goals: want to write a book? Commit to writing for just one hour every day. Want to improve your relationship? Commit to taking two loving actions every day. Want to move forward in your career? Commit to learning whatever skills you need every single day. Want to eat healthier? Commit each day to eating a healthy breakfast, then commit to eating a healthy lunch and then a healthy dinner. Want to get fitter? Commit to walking every day. Commitment every day is a whole lot easier in many ways….

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