A couple of weeks ago, I attended a luncheon where the guest speaker started off by asking the following questions:
“How many diets does it really take for you to lose or maintain the weight that is ideal for you?”
“How many motivational speeches, or books, or CD’s and DVD’s does it really take to get you to the point where you feel like your life has purpose?”
“How many businesses does it really take to get yourself to the level of financial success that you so desire?”
Of course, the answer is: one.
…if you commit to it.
The Encarta Dictionary defines commitment as: “something that takes up time or energy, especially an obligation.”
One of the biggest commitments a man can make is getting married (I’ve been married for sixteen years and have three wonderful girls). It took me years of ups and downs in my personal relationships, along with years of not attaining my desired success level in business before I realized something:
- I had failed to fully commit to myself.
I had been going through life merely existing and accepting the life that was handed to me. After working several jobs and trying a few small businesses, I finally realized that what was holding me back in business and my personal growth was my level of commitment to myself, my vision — my purpose.
Time keeps passing us by or, as the song says “time keeps on slipping into the future.” For most situations in life such as a business, a relationship, our children, where we live, or how we live, the result is heavily based upon the level of commitment that we are willing to make.
Let me ask you something — and I want you to really think of an honest answer:
- If you were to fully commit to one business, how much faster would it grow?
- If you fully committed to your personal relationships, how much happier could you be?
- If you committed more fully to your children, could you have an even greater positive impact on their lives?
It’s near impossible to succeed at anything with a full commitment. In order to succeed to the degree you’re capable of, you must first be willing to go ALL IN and focus.
Start with that one commitment, and see where it takes you. Once you accept the responsibilities that come with commitment, life may not get any easier, but it will be much more fulfilling.
Embrace the next level of commitment in whatever it is you’re involved with. Be willing to accept the challenges that will come — and turn them into opportunities.
There is a need for caution, though. Sometimes distractions come disguised as opportunities. There will always be something new right around the corner (or even knocking at your door) saying: “Hey, come my way… it’s better over here!” If you are committed, it will become easier for you to say “no” — and to say “yes” to your vision, your inspiration, your Purpose.
The moment you connect your true purpose with the natural talents present within you — you are in for an amazing ride. Don’t stand by and watch others succeed at what they are committed to. Fall in line with your destiny.
Some time ago, I wrote a personal mantra that I’ve found to be very useful. I recite it aloud at any moment where failure is not an option:
“All things are now ready. So, NOW is the perfect time for me to commit to my purpose and take my place. I am committed, therefore, success is mine.”
Bring it on!
About the Author: Robert Ellis Harrion is a Contributing Writer at WhataManKnows.
