Commitment

The dictionary defines the word "commit" in the following manner: "to bind or obligate, as by pledge or assurance; to commit oneself to a promise; to be committed to a course of action."

Commitment involves staying the course through the ups and downs of life. This may require making significant sacrifices--giving up habits, possessions, time or long-enjoyed comforts--for the sake of a higher goal and a better future. Such sacrifices, like most things in life worth having, are rarely easy.

Commitment in romantic relationships requires us to place the needs of another person above our own desires. Mutual self-interest may be enough to start a new relationship, but it won't remain strong for long unless a foundation of mutual sacrifice is built. Commitment makes it possible for two people to withstand the ebbs and flows of romance, the pressures of every day living and the inevitable changes that occur as the years go by.

When we commit to another person or course of action we are making a promise that will persist even when difficulties arise. If we "commit" to a goal but give up the first time we encounter an obstacle, or "commit" to a relationship but run away at the first sign of trouble, then we aren't really committed. True commitment is strengthened when it is put to the test.