Make a Commitment to yourself this month
- bey0ndM@gz!ne
- November 5, 2021
- Default, People-Perspective
- 0 Comments
In the Indian culture, we are made to grow up with the idea that we need to honour the commitments we make to our parents, spouses, children, to our studies and work. And that is a wonderful habit
BUT what about making a commitment to our own selves? What does that even look like? Why is it a good idea?
Committing to yourself shows that you respect your life and needs as much as you respect everyone else. Having a commitment to yourself is not an act of selfishness, it is an act of self-care.
We are often wired to take care of others, but taking care of ourselves requires us to make a conscious effort. It is tough. But it is also necessary. Think of it this way, only if your own container of compassion is full, can you express your love to others.
When you commit to yourself, whether it is in the area of health, spirituality, selfdevelopment, or in the pursuit of a hobby that brings you joy, you are making a contribution to express your unique self.
Follow Your Heart
We are all different. Our inner compass finds fulfilment in unique directions. Some may find rock-climbing a soothing experience, others may need a massage. It is this inner compass that also needs love and commitment – something which we often forget to do.
We forget that we also need to honour our inner selves. We have become ‘practical’ people. We prefer to follow the rush of daily life and spend our time doing things for others. At times, we might feel guilt or shame for wanting to be different; for wanting to take the day off to pamper ourselves.
We are conditioned to believe that our life has value only if we serve others. We are unable to commit to ourselves as easily as we commit to others. We are wired to do our duty, and be selfless human beings. After all, it is noble to live a life that is devoted to doing things for others. Here’s where you need to remind yourself – you matter just as much as everyone else.
Self-compassion is a muscle that needs to be developed. Once you realise that a commitment to the self is important, you are planting a seed for your future self to lead a fulfilling life.
Believe in Your self
You cannot be everything to everyone; you need to set some boundaries. If you want to carve some time for yourself to meditate, listen to music, dance, read, day-dream, do it. When we make a commitment to ourselves we acknowledge we have ideas and thoughts worthy of respect. You don’t have to set huge goals. Simple things that are important to you are what we focus on. Write them down in bullet points.
What are the three commitments you will make to yourself? How will they benefit you?
Then write down what must be done today to take that small step forward.
If for example, you want to make time for yoga for twenty minutes a day, then you are giving yourself an achievable goal. The commitment is made with the intention of the next step. If time is tight, then plan your day to make that twenty minutes available. If you cannot do twenty minutes, take ten minutes, or five minutes. But show up daily during that time for yourself, it is this attitude that’s important. Commit to giving yourself that time. Be prepared to procrastinate. Then think of the outcome, how good you will feel when you show up for yourself. Focus on the end goal.
These small achievements are powerful. A small change in your lifestyle, can bring about a huge change within. It can make you feel victorious, like you conquered something great. This incentivises you to make the next commitment, and the next. Life feels and looks different when you achieve your goals.
This kind of mental shift strengthens you internally, and enables you to take charge of your life in ways you could never imagine.
Reflect on your Inner Self
What inspires you? What do you dream of doing? What activity would fill your heart with joy? What do you wish you could change about yourself? Categorise and ask yourself which area of your life needs attention. Pick one from each category, or just one, and make that commitment to yourself to change or improve. If you want to try something different, and if you are a creative person, then sing, paint, dance, or write. Practice regularly and you will notice the changes happening within. It will bring about a realisation of what fulfils you and what doesn’t.
This is a journey of self-discovery. When you discover what makes your heart sing, you will be filled with a sense of acceptance and gratitude for a life that is fulfilling and meaningful.
Any choice you make to honour yourself, to value and care for yourself is worth the effort. Think of the outcome: How positive and empowered you will feel. Just take that one small step forward.
What commitment will you make to yourself today?
