Commitment vs. Interest
Are you committed to, or interested in, your goals?
There is a quote from Ken Blanchard that I find myself re-discovering every 6-12 months or so, and it always seems to come at a time I'm lacking motivation or need a reminder that helps me adjust my perspective:
There’s a difference between interest and commitment. When you’re interested in doing something, you do it only when it’s convenient. When you’re committed to something you accept no excuses - only results.
Ken Blanchard
This quote has been a cornerstone of working on my own goals, as well as something I've introduced to my clients, which has helped both of us embrace both interest AND commitment and see our goals all the way through.
Interest is often fleeting. It is something that sounds good in the moment, and as Ken Blanchard says, when it is convenient. This means that there is often a lack of consistency. Working out may sound good in the moment, so we join a gym, buy a Peloton, or download an on-demand class pass app, but over time, we lose interest or our mind and attention drifts elsewhere.
Interest often slips away and doesn’t overcome our excuses.
Commitment on the other hand is a pledge or promise to do something, or sometimes a pledge to NOT do something. Commitment is active (not passive) and requires action. It requires you to take action until the desired result is achieved, even when it isn’t convenient.
When we are committed, we push through in spite of setbacks or obstacles or how we feel in the moment. We don’t negotiate with ourselves even if our mind tries to convince us to do something else.
So what would happen if we combined the two?
I think interest can help us start on the path of achieving our goals, but if we combine it with 100% commitment, then we are golden. If you are interested & committed to stop overdrinking, stop overeating, improving your relationship or working on your mental health, you will have best of both worlds.
Interest can get you in the door and your commitment will keep you there even when interest leaves and you don’t want to be there.
Pay attention to your interests as they often symbolize where you want to grow and where your future self wants to go.
Furthermore, it is critical to stay on the path by learning how to stay 100% committed. Your no matter what reason. Your future self depends on it.
If you struggle to combine interest and commitment, don’t hesitate to schedule a time to talk so that I can coach you through all of the excuses your lower brain will offer you. I don’t believe the excuses and nor should you.
Imagine being interested, committed, AND having a coach to help you stay on point?! If you would like some support or guidance with interest vs. commitment and staying on track, I invite you to schedule a time to chat.
Mind Your Strength,
Melanie Shmois
