Why We Keep Commitments - We Want To!

When you make a commitment – can you keep it? Here are the reasons why commitments work:

1. There is an ease being with the other person.

• You like that person’s company better than anyone else’s.
• It’s a great feeling to really like the person you are with. What a relief!!
• Like and respect go hand and hand and are essential to loving.

2. You feel safe. We naturally want to keep commitments when we feel safe.

• You know that no matter what happens, the other person would never intentionally hurt you.
• You also feel you can be vulnerable. If you can’t cry with your partner, you can never really be open.
• Knowing another is an honor; there is a sacredness that is acknowledged, recognized, and never broken.

3. You feel supported personally and professionally and feel encouraged to develop your skills and talents.

• Even when those interests are different than your own, you are supportive of your partner.
• Real loving means you want the same things for your partner that you want for yourself.
• Nothing is more loving than having support and encouragement when going in a new direction.

4. Even when things get tough, you stay when you want to go, because you “know” this is where you belong.

• Assuming the relationship is reasonably healthy, you’re not so quick to run when you get upset or discouraged.
• All relationships go through fits and starts and you are willing to go through these times without creating great drama.
• Navigating these difficult junctures is what the makes the relationship flexible (able to bend without breaking) and makes you feel good about yourself and the other. It’s what deepens the bond and opens your heart to loving.