“Commitment is a big part of what I am and what I believe. How committed are you to winning?… There’s that moment every morning when you look in the mirror: Are you committed, or are you not?” – LeBron James
The last post I wrote was about focusing on the possibilities for your life. It was about uncovering what you want and desire most deeply. I received some feedback from a reader sharing that the problem is not knowing what he wants; the problem is going for it and taking action. Even when we know what will help us be happier, more fulfilled and full of zest, there can be barriers and resistance in the way. This resistance is totally normal. It’s our ego trying to protect us and keep us safe in our comfort zone. Unfortunately, this is where people get stuck. They get committed to feeling comfortable and safe, even if it’s at the expense being the best version of themselves.
The bottom line is that we’re always committed to something, even if what we’re committed to makes us feel empty and bored.
I have been going through a coaching program with Tripp Lanier for the past few months now. It has been a powerful experience so far and I have been honored to connect with the other men/coaches in the program. If there is one thing I have learned so far it’s that if I want the inspiring possibilities for my life to become a reality, I need to be fully committed. I have to really really want it. I have to be passionate about it. I have to stop settling for fear and step to the edge of my comfort zone.
There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living. – Nelson Mandela
This is obviously the common trap for many people. We can know what we want but still don’t get it is because there are competing commitments. We aren’t willing to shake up our comfortable and cozy life. We aren’t willing to put in the time or take the risk.
What are the competing commitments that get in the way of what you really want?
It might be that you’re afraid or doubt you can have what you want. It might be that you want security and your dreams don’t ensure that. Or maybe you simply don’t really want things to be different. The point is, you have a choice to live a fulfiling and passionate life, or to live a life of settling for what feels safe. I realize it’s hard to start saying “no” to what has become familiar. And, it can be just as hard to say “yes” to something that feels risky and unknown. But, this is what it comes down to. What do you want more? What are you willing to say no to in order to live a more fulfilling life?
What do you want to start say yes to?!
You have to choose what you are going to commit to.
“A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” – Colin Powell
You have to be willing to put in the emotional, mental, physical, and financial resources in order to bring it to fruition. We can’t just sort of commit to something and expect it to grow, deepen, and expand. This is the case whether it’s a creative project, long-term goal, relationship, or our physical health. It’s not a matter of what you can do or what you want to do, it’s a matter of whether you’re committed to make it a reality.
Are you committed enough to what you really want?
Or are you more committed to the way things are now?
