The Hidden Asterisks

I believe that in both professional and personal spheres, commitments form the foundation of relationships and between companies or individuals it creates a sense of security and reliance.

When we make such commitments, it often occurs during periods of optimism and good will or at personal level during emotional closeness or to strengthen a relationship. In the business world, two companies might enter into a partnership with enthusiasm, each promising unwavering support to the other. Similarly, in personal relationships, friends might make promises of lifelong loyalty, or couples might commit to supporting each other's dreams and stand by each other no matter what life throws their way. These commitments, made in good faith, strengthen bonds and create a foundation for future collaboration or companionship.

As time passes, however, the landscape of business and personal relationships may shift. The initial excitement may wane, market conditions might change, or new opportunities and challenges may arise. Consider a scenario where two companies that once saw each other as critical partners now find their strategic goals diverging. A company that promised ongoing support may be shifting its focus to a new market segment.

On a personal front, Individual growth, changing life circumstances, or new priorities change dynamics between people. A friend who committed support might gradually distance themselves as the relationship loses its warmth and closeness. A partner who vowed unconditional support might struggle when their significant other's dreams conflict with their own. A sibling who committed to frequent contact might become overwhelmed with their own family responsibilities.

At this point, when commitments are put to the test, the hidden conditions—those asterisks—begin to appear. In the business world, new stipulations are introduced for continued partnership, such as requiring increased investment or exclusivity. In personal relationships, a friend might attach conditions to their support, like expecting reciprocal favors or needing more time to fulfill commitments. A sibling might place conditions on help, like expecting that only their advice will be followed or bring up a past insignificant or unrelated situation to avoid fulfilling the commitment.

These emerging conditions serve as a way for individuals to protect their interests, assert their needs, or adapt to changing circumstances. However, they also weaken the original commitment and a breach of trust. When hidden conditions surface, they can have a impact on relationships. The security and confidence built on the foundation of seemingly unconditional promises begin to erode, creating a ripple effect that causes both parties to question the authenticity and reliability of all commitments made within the professional or personal relationship.

By introducing these new conditions, a significant risk is taken with the relationship. This gamble clearly shows a willingness to sacrifice the relationship for professional or personal convenience or changed priorities. In essence, betting that the relationship can withstand this reinterpretation of the original commitment, or that the relationship has already weakened or has become unprofitable to a point where its potential loss is acceptable.

In Professional setup, it is called a high-stakes wager and it has significant implications. The emergence of these new conditions is not only a failure to receive the expected support but also a stark and painful indication of the deterioration of relationship. It may prompt a reevaluation of the entire relationship, potentially accelerating its decline. The added conditions might provide short-term comfort or convenience, they risk permanently damaging the trust and closeness that once defined the collaboration.

In human connections whether professional or personal, commitments serve as anchors of trust and mutual support. When faced with the temptation to add conditions to our commitments, we must carefully weigh the value of the relationship against the perceived benefits of these new terms. The next time you make or receive a contract or commitment, take a moment to look for the asterisks—both visible and invisible. Consider the long-term implications of your promises and any conditions you might be tempted to add later. Your future self, and your relationships, will thank you for this foresight and honesty.