Day 7: 'C' is for COMMITMENT

There's no abiding success without commitment. --Anthony Robbins

Instead of making a list of resolutions or goals for the new year - what if you made a list of commitments to yourself? a list of promises, to honor and keep? Would that change the way you approach the things you want to do?

You've outlined some goals you want to achieve in 2011, made some specific plans to reach them, have begun developing good habits and making healthy choices. How committed are you to your success? When you commit to a goal, you are making a promise - a contract - that defines your determination to reach that goal.

A good tool to help keep you focused is a motto or affirmation. Find one that inspires you and that seems to capture the kind of encouragement and meaning that will strengthen your resolve. Use 'your' affirmation as a signature for emails, post it on your refrigerator, write it across the top of your desk calendar - anyplace and everyplace where it will remind you of your intention. You are reinforcing your determination to reach that goal!

When your attention wanders - if you find you are having to eat out when you hadn't planned to, or you see a commercial on television ('Gotta have it!') that tempts you - use your motto to bring your focus back to your goal. Remember why you are on this path and where you want to go: remember your commitment to yourself to succeed.

A promise to yourself is as important as a promise you make to anyone else. When you whole-heartedly commit to achieving a goal, the commitment itself can motivate you, inspire you, help you achieve. Practice keeping your word to yourself, put effort into it, and you will reach your goal.