I personally believe that the quality of our life is in direct proportion to the quality of our commitments. If we have accurate, high-quality, productive, good-for-everyone commitments, then we will likely have a high-quality life, if we maintain our integrity and honor our commitments.
Commitments come in varying intensities, importance, and duration. Intensities vary because of risk, liability, sensitivity and the deadline involved. Importance varies according to the level of significance we assign to each commitment. The higher our priority for that commitment, the higher the level of importance should be. Durations can vary for many reasons. We agree to sit on a board or committee for a specified length of time, then that commitment is done. We decide to get married and have children. Ideally, these are lifelong commitments that remain intact as long as we are alive.
These lifelong commitments are where I believe most people falter, and therefore, experience less than their hoped-for future. What areas of our life should have lifetime commitments? Every major aspect should: spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, financial, family, and social. Each area deserves a lifelong plan and a lifelong commitment to that plan.
Spiritual: Commit to your concept of that which is larger than you in the universe.
Mental: Commit to a plan for lifelong learning. We are never too old or too wealthy to stop learning.
Emotional: Commit to living a balanced life: one that includes both solitude and social contacts. If you have emotional challenges, seek professional help. It is a sign of intelligence and strength, not a sign of weakness.
Physical: Commit to attaining and remaining at your ideal body weight. Commit to SAFE – Strength, Aerobic and Flexibility Exercises five or six days per week. Get a physical before you start your program if you have been inactive until now.
Financial: Commit to living a life of prosperity. Having what you need when you need it. That doesn’t mean always having what you want when you want it.
Family: Commit to supporting those in your immediate and extended family in all aspects of their life. Allow them to reciprocate.
Social: Commit to friendship and caring. Love others and allow others to love you.
Remember, a quality life begins with quality commitments.
Tim O’Brien writes continuing-education courses and presents seminars on stress management.
Comments are no longer available on this story