Cent Per Cent Commitment The 100-percent commitment rule explains that if you wish to achieve success in any undertaking, you must be 100 percent dedicated to it and nothing less than that. Here are a few insights on developing such commitment levels Research Director of the International Motor Vehicle Program (IMVP) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), James Womack says; “Commitment unlocks the doors of imagination, allows vision and gives us the ‘right stuff’ to turn our dreams into reality”. People often complain about not achieving their goals and regarding all the obstacles that make their life difficult. Little do such people realise that in life we don’t get what we want, we get only what we are 100% committed to. What sometimes people see as their “commitment” may be nothing more than the act of being merely “interested” in something, and that is not enough. To commit to something means to block out all other possible alternatives while focusing efforts on the one definite objective. This single-mindedness and attention bring about a sense of firmness that the desired outcome will be achieved against all odds. Why is 98 % commitment harder than 100%? The 100% rule states that 98% commitment is difficult, 100% commitment is easier. This means that when people commit to an action, habit or lifestyle change, it becomes easy when the commitment is 100% because what they do is out of a strong conviction. When we are only 98% committed, it becomes laborious and difficult because the concept is not yet fixated in our belief system. It is yet a wishful thinking that we can live without. When people want something seriously enough, they make the conscious decision to commit themselves 100% to getting it. There is no room for flexibility. The choice has been made in advance with full intention and dedication. However, when we make a 98% commitment to doing something, that leaves room for exceptions, excuses, alternatives and errors. It means that we are not willing to go all the way. Commitment Requires Clarity 100% commitment requires clarity of certain aspects and once you have this in place the journey is going to be a lot more interesting and fulfilling. 1.Clarity about What You Really Want Before you commit to something, ask yourself: What is it that I want to commit myself to? What meaning will it hold in my life if I achieve this? Do I need this right now or is it fine to achieve it sometime later in my life? The more reasons you can find to have this one thing in your life, the more commitment and passion you will muster. 2. Clarity of Potential Sacrifices While taking into consideration all the benefits you will derive from making this commitment to achieving your goal, it is also important to take into account all possible sacrifices that the journey will require. So ask yourself: What will I need to give up as I go about accomplishing this task? How do I feel about making these sacrifices? Am I willing to come out of my comfort zone? If you are clear that achieving your committed goals outweigh the sacrifices involved, you will not falter or back-out during decision time. 3. Clarity of Obstacles You Might Face Along the expedition you will face difficulties and challenges. You have to be prepared for hindrances. Nothing great has ever come easily and effortlessly to anyone. Ask yourself: What kind of external obstacles can prevent me from getting what I want? Which internal obstacles could pose challenges for me? How will I handle each of these obstacles? This clarity will provide you the necessary strength to ride through the challenges along your path. 4. Clarity of Your Commitment Levels You need to be clear about the intensity of your commitment before you begin. Ask yourself: How motivated am I to commit to this wholeheartedly? How confident am I that I can follow through with my commitment? If there are any limiting beliefs, then how am I going to overcome them? At the onset you might experience inner resistance. But, don’t despair and do not give up! Having understood the power of 100% commitment go ahead and create your action plan, commit to excellence and turn into reality the dreams that are dear to you!
