To commit to something means to go through with a decision. This is a very loose, definition, though, because the more casual a commitment is, the less effective and rewarding it becomes.
True commitment starts in a spirit resolved to start and finish something without intentional or unintentional wavering. I decide to do something and then I do it. While I’m doing it, I don’t stop halfway or partway and think of how I can change what I’m committed to doing. I don’t think my way out of it.
There are micro commitments and macro commitments, but they all require the same passion and spirit.
Micro commitments are the little things we do each day, such as me sitting down to write this piece, or in the case of earlier this morning, going surfing: I committed to go surfing and be back in time to write this, and because I stuck to the commitment, it is happening.
I paddled out and concentrated on getting waves. I did not release my concentration or energy to the other surfers who were casually chatting, or to sitting around waiting for waves to come to me.
I went out and caught waves (this is different than waiting and hard to explain). I was spirited and committed to what I was doing. My body was committed. It was a whole experience.
At the end, when I knew it was time to go in, I focused on getting one more good wave. It came immediately and I rode it well (on the back of the board for better turning). I got out of the water at exactly 9:00:00 am on the dot, but not before starting to paddle again but then turning around upon realizing the commitment I’d be dishonoring.
Macro commitments are life-long commitments, or at least ones with long lasting results. I’m committed to showing my wife love everyday. I’m committed to making enough money this year—$10K/month to be exact—so we’re out of the trap we’re in. I’m committed to be a more selfless person.
I could even apply macro commitment to surfing, in that I put my surfer spirit into it whenever I go, like I did today. [It doesn’t mean I have to do it everyday or religiously].
When we go through with our commitments, things falls into place and a cleaner system of living emerges. Things get done.