We talk a lot about the word commitment in the business world. After all, the entrepreneurial mindset requires an extremely high level of perseverance in order to achieve big dreams. We believe that when we have a commitment to excellence, it builds an essential habit that pours over into every area of life.
But how do we master the art of keeping the promises we make to ourselves? Let’s start by asking ourselves a question to identify a potential “commitment issue.”
Do my aspirations and actions match up?
Here’s the big question. Do my actions match up to my dream and goals? You can “dream big” and “reach for the stars” all you want, but if your daily habits and practices don’t align with your goals, you won’t achieve them. It may sound harsh, but no one can deny this truth … if we don’t move, we’re not going anywhere.
A part of identifying the state of your commitment to excellence is to do inventory of your actions and plan accordingly. Need some tangible steps to help you do this? No worries … we’ve got you covered.
Five ways to keep your commitment to excellence (and achieve your goals).
Sometimes, in order to make progress, we need a step-by-step process. Committing to excellence doesn’t feel like a tangible goal on the surface. But there are actionable steps you can take to get there.
Step 1: Track your habits.
It’s important that our daily actions—or our habits—align with our words. Attaining your dream life is more than a “fake it ’til you make it” mentality. Decide what habits it will take to achieve your goals, and then track them!
This can be done in many ways! Habit tracking has become so popular that many planners include a habit tracking section. There are also habit tracker apps on your phone that can help you stay on course.
Step 2: Establish routines and time block.
From well-established habits come solid routines. But we can’t expect our human willpower to carry us through. Time blocking is one of the most valuable disciplines we’ve learned over the years.
Whether it be a daily habit or an important task on your to-do list, scheduling a time to get it done in your planner (physical or digital), is the key to success! But not only do you need to time block your tasks, you need to protect these commitments. Treat every scheduled item on your calendar as you would an important appointment or meeting.
Step 3: Practice being consistent.
Practice doesn’t always make perfect, but it does make progress. So, practice being a person of your word. (Hint: Steps 1 and 2 are there to help you do this … wink, wink). If it helps, start small. Here’s a list of small habits that don’t feel so big that they’ll stop you from moving forward:
- Drink water before anything else in the morning.
- Write down three things you’re grateful for a week.
- Go for a quick 20-minute walk every day.
- Text someone a kind, encouraging message once a week (that’s fifty-two people you can make a positive impact on every year!)
These don’t feel overwhelming, right? They are simple habits, but over time, they make a big impact. Not only that, but practicing consistency builds your commitment muscle so that you can successfully tackle more ambitious goals in the future!
Step 4: Make personal growth a priority.
Having an unshakable commitment to excellence is more than this list of to-dos. When it comes to being consistent, we must become the best version of ourselves every day. Personal growth is not simply a suggestion. It’s crucial if you want to see the success that you’re envisioning for yourself.
But what activities qualify as personal growth? Here are a few ideas:
- Read books from leadership, business, and mindset thought leaders.
- Attend events and stay connected with inspiring people.
- Listen to podcasts or audios that will better your skillset.
- Keep a positive outlook on life.
- Take care of your body and mind.
Prioritizing your personal growth journey is easier said than done. We think this blog on “Establishing Your Growth Environment” will help you set the stage for success.
Step 5: Be all in.
Now, this step isn’t as actionable as the ones listed above,, but sometimes it’s the intangibles that make all the difference. Our challenge to you is to BE ALL IN! Know your “why” so that you go to sleep and wake up thinking about how you’ll make it happen. You will achieve your dreams if you commit yourself to excellence and never give up.
Your commitment to excellence is a commitment to yourself.
Remember, your goals and dreams are yours. When you make a commitment to achieve the life you’ve envisioned for yourself, you’re the only one who can accomplish it. This journey is yours to embark on, so work hard and enjoy every step along the way.
Even though this is your journey, you don’t have to travel this road alone. Find the right circle of people and stay connected with them! Our blog post on “Three Types of People to Surround Yourself With” will help!
