What Are You Actually Committed To?
Commitment is the bridge between setting goals and achieving them. Yet, many of us say we’re committed without truly understanding what that means. Are you committed to your goals, or are you just interested in the idea of reaching them? The commitment ladder is a simple but powerful tool that helps you assess your true level of commitment. Each rung represents a different level of dedication, from the weakest form of desire to an unbreakable commitment.
Where you place yourself on this ladder determines how likely you are to reach your goals. Let’s walk through each rung, so you can determine where you currently stand—and what it will take to climb to the highest level of commitment.
The Commitment Ladder
The commitment ladder is divided into four rungs, each representing a different level of commitment. As you climb the ladder, your dedication grows stronger, transforming from a casual interest into a solid promise to yourself.
Rung 1: "I Want" (Weakest Commitment)
The first rung is the “I want” level. At this stage, you have a desire or wish for something—perhaps you want to lose weight, start a business, or improve your relationships. However, this level of commitment is weak. Wanting something doesn’t mean you’re willing to put in the work, face obstacles, or make sacrifices.
Examples:
- “I want to get fit.”
- “I want to be successful.”
- “I want to have better relationships.”
At this level, you’re saying you want something, but there’s no plan or action attached to that desire. “I want” is like looking at the top of the mountain without making a single step toward climbing it.
Rung 2: "I’ll Try" (A Little Better, But Still Weak)
The next step up is “I’ll try.” This level is slightly more committed than simply wanting something, but it’s still weak. When you say you’ll try, you’re leaving room for excuses. “I’ll try” sounds hopeful, but it lacks the firm dedication needed to overcome challenges. At this level, any setback or inconvenience can easily derail your efforts.
Examples:
- “I’ll try to work out more.”
- “I’ll try to save money.”
- “I’ll try to be more patient.”
“I’ll try” is an attempt, not a promise. At this level, commitment is conditional and inconsistent. You’re open to the idea, but you haven’t made a solid decision to do whatever it takes to reach your goal.
Rung 3: "I Will, Unless…" (Better, But Conditional)
The “I will, unless…” level is an improvement from “I’ll try.” Here, you’re stating an intention to follow through, but with conditions. You’re saying, “I’m committed, unless something gets in my way.” This level of commitment is stronger, but it still has weak points. It allows for certain excuses and exceptions, which can prevent you from reaching your goals if things get challenging.
Examples:
- “I will get fit, unless work gets too busy.”
- “I will be disciplined, unless I have a tough day.”
- “I will start my business, unless I run into financial issues.”
At this level, you’re dedicated but only to a certain extent. The commitment is real, but it wavers in the face of obstacles. To achieve meaningful change, you’ll need to climb higher.
Rung 4: "I Am Committed No Matter What" (Strongest Commitment)
The top rung is “I am committed no matter what.” At this level, there is no room for excuses, conditions, or exceptions. You’re fully dedicated to achieving your goal, regardless of challenges, setbacks, or discomfort. This is a mindset of unbreakable commitment, where your goal becomes non-negotiable. When you’re at this level, you’re prepared to take action every day, do the hard work, and stick with it—even when it’s inconvenient, uncomfortable, or challenging.
Examples:
- “I am committed to getting fit, no matter what.”
- “I am committed to growing my business, no matter what.”
- “I am committed to being present for my family, no matter what.”
At this level, you’ve removed all conditions and created a firm, resolute commitment. This is the level of athletes, entrepreneurs, and leaders who achieve greatness. You’re not relying on motivation; you’re driven by a deep, internal commitment that keeps you moving forward, no matter what obstacles appear.
Climbing the Commitment Ladder
If you find yourself on one of the lower rungs of the commitment ladder, don’t worry—it’s normal to start there. The goal is to become aware of where you are now and work on strengthening your commitment. Here’s how to start climbing up:
Recognize Your Current Level
Be honest with yourself about where you are on the commitment ladder. Acknowledging your current level is the first step toward making changes.Challenge Your Conditions and Excuses
If you’re at the “I’ll try” or “I will, unless…” level, start identifying the conditions you’re placing on your commitment. Ask yourself why these conditions exist and if they’re truly necessary. Challenge yourself to remove them.Visualize Your Goal as Non-Negotiable
Imagine that achieving your goal is a must, not an option. Picture what it would feel like to be at the “no matter what” level. Visualize overcoming obstacles with a mindset of unwavering commitment.Set Clear, Daily Actions
Create small, consistent actions that you can take daily to move toward your goal. When you’re focused on actionable steps, your commitment level naturally strengthens.Reaffirm Your Commitment Regularly
Every day, remind yourself why your goal is important. Reaffirm your commitment by saying to yourself, “I am committed, no matter what.” Over time, this becomes a part of your identity.
Why Commitment Matters
Commitment is the difference between dreams and reality. It’s what separates people who achieve their goals from those who give up when the going gets tough. When you’re on the top rung of the commitment ladder, your resolve is unshakable. You’re not just hoping or trying—you’re making a promise to yourself, and you’re willing to do whatever it takes to keep it.
Whether you want to improve your health, succeed in your career, or deepen your relationships, true commitment is what will help you reach those goals. The commitment ladder is a powerful tool to gauge where you are and what steps you need to take to fully commit to the life you envision.
Where Are You on the Commitment Ladder?
Take a moment to reflect: Are you simply wanting, trying, or willing “unless…”, or are you committed no matter what? The higher you climb on the commitment ladder, the closer you’ll get to achieving your goals and living a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Decide where you want to be—and make the commitment to climb to the top.