The Power of Commitment

by Michael S. Clouse

At some point in the past we've all done it... And if we're not careful, at some point in the future we might do it again... We've given our word, "I'll be there." We've made a promise, "You can count on me." We've committed to doing something—make 10 calls, bring two guests, or achieve that promotion—and yet we didn't follow through.

And we (or at least I) always had a good explanation... "The time just got away from me." "No one wanted to come." "It was harder than I thought." But somewhere deep down inside we had to wonder if those reasons really were our reality. True, we didn't make the calls, bring those guests, or achieve the promotion when we told ourselves we would. But why did we commit to something and then not complete the pre-agreed upon task, assignment, or goal?

Was our failure to succeed really due to a lack of time, some unlearned skill, or a much deeper self-esteem issue? Well, we could probably get a great conversation going as to why so many people have such a difficult time keeping their commitments. However, I would prefer to offer a simpler solution—a step-by-step approach that will, in effect, allow you to set, keep, and ultimately achieve any worthwhile goal you desire...

Now just to make sure we're all on the same page, allow me to share with you the definition of commitment I learned from one of my mentors, Jeff Olson, in 1995—nineteen words that still echo inside my head to this day: "Commitment is doing the thing you said you'd do, long after the feeling you said it in has passed." Now that's what keeping your word is all about!

So if "committing to...and then following through" is what you'd like to do more often, the following five step plan will help you set your goals and keep your promises, thereby allowing you to ultimately achieve what's truly important to you...

1) Decide What You Want

Achievers realize some people join the business because they want to drive a new car; some because they want to earn more money; and some because they want the extra time needed to enjoy a more rewarding life. What about you? To stay the course you'll need to be moving towards something you actually want! After all, part of your journey is discovering your real why...

2) Know Your "Why?"

True, deciding what you want is your first step, and yet it's only part of the solution! Therefore, if you really want to set, keep, and ultimately achieve every worthwhile goal, you'll need to become clear on why you want what you want. The best part is you'll know when you've found your "Why" because from that moment on you will do whatever it takes!

3) Follow A Proven Plan

You either have a proven plan (system or daily method of operation) you follow, or you don't. If you do, continue moving forward. If you don't, find someone who has already achieved what you want. Find out what they did. Do that. And then continue until you achieve the same result they've already proven was possible. Because it's easier to keep going when you get results—and it's easier to get results when you follow a proven plan.

4) Commit Yourself Publicly

After you've decided what you want, discovered why that is important to you, and are diligently following a proven plan to achieve it, you're ready for step four: public commitment! Decide in writing that you will be here, still actively involved, a year from now! On 3" x 5" cards write out what you want (your goal), followed by a sentence or two explaining your desire to have this (your "Why?”), and then include the steps you're taking (your proven plan) to accomplish it... Give these hand-written cards to 10 people you know, like, and trust, and would not want to disappoint. Believe me, if you'll do this, you will follow through.

5) Get Better Every Day

Leaders understand that wherever they are, and wherever they're going, the journey will be easier if they incorporate a daily personal development program. So what should yours include? Books, CDs, and classes. Because when you get better "it" gets easier...

Use this information—all five steps—to guide you and you will be well on your way to keeping your word and achieving all your dreams. And that's the real power of commitment!

All the best,
Michael S. Clouse

Dr. Randy Pausch on Oprah

I am so glad I took the 10 minutes to STOP and watch this powerful video. This makes me thankful for every breath that I take.

Professor, Dr. Randy Pausch knows he is dying. This video will leave you thinking about your life...

One moment. That's all it takes!

It's true...

One moment of inspiration can change a life, change the world.

I received a very beautiful reminder of this principle in an email this past week.

In his email was a link to an inspirational movie on the defining moments in our lives.

http://www.SUCCESSmagazine.com/definingmoments

I was truly moved by its stirring words and breathtaking images and struck by how it relates to the principles of achievement and success that are at the heart of the mission of SUCCESS magazine.

In fact, I was so moved that I want to share it with you right away as I know you'll enjoy the beauty of its simple yet inspiring message.

It only takes a few minutes to watch, and it's time I know you'll consider well-spent. I sure do.

Follow the link below to experience this awe-inspiring movie.

http://www.SUCCESSmagazine.com/definingmoments

Remember, one moment is all it takes. When will that moment happen for you?

"Success is achieved by those who try and keep trying." - W. Clement Stone

" Commitment is the turning point in your life when you seize the moment to alter your destiny." - Denis Waitley

"Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

"Pursue your passion with faith and tenacity and you will bring your destiny into reality." - Chris Widener

The Secret Gratitude Book

The Secret has transformed millions of people’s lives and continues to reach millions more as it sweeps the world. Now Rhonda Byrne has written The Secret Gratitude Book to help you live the principles of the Secret easily and effortlessly. The Secret Gratitude Book is a powerful and infallible tool to LIVE the Secret.


We are very pleased to announce the release of The Secret Gratitude Book. As Rhonda is fond of saying, "Love and gratitude can part seas, move mountains, and create miracles. And love and gratitude can dissolve all negativity." Feeling gratitude is the fastest way for you to change every single thing in your life. The Secret Gratitude Book is our most powerful creation to date for living The Secret effortlessly and easily.

One of our philosophies at The Secret is that each tool we create must have the power to completely transform lives. With The Secret Gratitude Book you are powerfully inspired to focus on the thoughts and feelings of gratitude every single day. It is designed to help you intend and create everything you want for the future through the simple process of gratitude, and is filled with guidance and inspirational insights from Rhonda Byrne about the role of gratitude in your life. - The Secret Team

The Secret Gratitude Book

Time Management

by Jim Rohn

Something will master and something will serve. Either you run the day or the day runs you; either you run the business or the business runs you.

Learn how to separate the majors and the minors. A lot of people don't do well simply because they major in minor things.

Don't mistake movement for achievement. It's easy to get faked out by being busy. The question is: Busy doing what?

Days are expensive. When you spend a day you have one less day to spend. So make sure you spend each one wisely.

Sometimes you need to stay in touch but be out of reach.

Time is our most valuable asset, yet we tend to waste it, kill it, and spend it rather than invest it.

We can no more afford to spend major time on minor things than we can to spend minor time on major things.

Time is more valuable than money. You can get more money, but you cannot get more time.

Never begin the day until it is finished on paper.

Learn how to say no. Don't let your mouth overload your back.

Time is the best-kept secret of the rich.