When you make a promise to someone, whether it's a small commitment like showing up to a friend's birthday party or a more significant obligation like meeting a work deadline, you are essentially giving your word. And keeping your word is not just a matter of being reliable or trustworthy; it's also a matter of personal integrity and self-respect.
When you keep your word, you demonstrate to others that you are a person of your word. You show that you are someone who can be counted on and that you take your commitments seriously. This, in turn, fosters trust and respect in your relationships with others.
But perhaps even more importantly, keeping your word honors yourself. When you make a promise, you are essentially making a commitment to yourself as well as to others. You are saying, "I value my word and my reputation, and I will do what I said I would do."
By following through on your commitments, you are demonstrating self-respect and self-discipline. You are proving to yourself that you are capable of following through on your intentions and that you have the integrity to hold yourself accountable.
On the other hand, when you fail to keep your word, you not only let down the other person, but you also compromise your own sense of integrity and self-worth. You may feel guilty, ashamed, or embarrassed, and your self-esteem may suffer as a result.
Moreover, if you repeatedly break your commitments, you risk damaging your relationships with others and eroding their trust in you.
Of course, there may be times when circumstances beyond your control prevent you from keeping your word. In such cases, it's important to communicate with the other person and explain the situation honestly and respectfully. This can help to maintain trust and respect in your relationship, even if you are unable to follow through on your promise.
Keeping your word is not just a matter of fulfilling your commitments to others; it's also a matter of personal integrity and self-respect.
By honoring your word, you demonstrate that you are a person of your word, and you foster trust and respect in your relationships with others.
So the next time you make a promise, remember that keeping your word is not just about the other person, but it's also about honoring yourself.
Watch our quick video on When Your Word is Your Bond: How Keeping Your Word Can Transform Your Personal and Professional Life