The Power of Commitment: The Impact of Keeping Your Word

What is more important than keeping your word?

This question was posed to me during an early self-development seminar I attended a few years ago. Since that day, I’ve come to deeply understand the power and impact of keeping one’s word, not just to others but, more importantly, to oneself.

Some philosophies suggest that words are like a spell that shapes our reality. Whether or not you believe in the mystical side of this, there’s no denying that words profoundly influence how we perceive ourselves. Your word is one of the most valuable tools you possess. Words become actions, and when you can't trust what you say, it directly impacts what you believe you're capable of achieving. In a world where people often say more than they do, the value of a commitment has never been more important to enable us to creating a better reality to everyone.

A Word as a Commitment to Yourself

We often think of commitments as promises we make to others. However, every commitment starts with a promise to ourselves. If we say we’re going to do something and fail to follow through, what message are we sending to ourselves? Essentially, we’re saying that our words don’t hold value, not even to us. This lack of self-trust can undermine our motivation, our ability to start and finish projects, and our overall sense of self-worth.

If I can't take my own words seriously, how can I expect others to value them? This is why I pay close attention not only to what people say but to whether they keep their word. A simple promise like, "I’ll call you," or "I’ll be there in 10 minutes," reveals much about a person’s reliability. And let’s be honest, those who struggle to honour their words in small ways often face challenges in achieving their larger personal goals—whether it’s sticking to a new routine, starting a project, or hitting financial targets.

This principle resonates deeply with the Toltec philosophy, particularly with Don Miguel Ruiz’s concept of being “impeccable with your word.” In his book, The Four Agreements, Ruiz emphasizes that being impeccable means using your words with integrity. It’s about speaking truthfully, kindly, and purposefully. Your word is a force of creation, shaping not only your external world but your inner reality as well.

When we speak carelessly, we spread negativity and “emotional poison,” as Ruiz calls it. But when we honour our word, we foster trust, both within ourselves and with others, creating a life rooted in authenticity and respect.

?A Personal Commitment to Self-Trust

Over the years, I’ve made keeping my word a priority. Not because I fear judgment, but because I want to trust myself fully. I refuse to lose myself in dreams and complaints about what’s not working in my life. If I want the world to give me credit, I need to start by valuing my own word first.

More than holding others accountable, I’ve learned to hold myself accountable. This doesn’t mean I’m perfect or always able to fulfil every promise. Life happens, plans change, and sometimes we need to adjust our commitments. But honouring your word also means having the integrity to communicate these changes. If you’re running late, say it. Need to reschedule a meeting? Ask if it’s possible. Can’t meet a deadline? Be honest about it. This isn’t about being flawless; it’s about being transparent and taking responsibility.

In my journey, I’ve discovered that we have the right to renegotiate our agreements as well. This is also a form of keeping our word. Circumstances change, and so do our desires. But by communicating openly, we avoid letting our unfulfilled promises chip away at our self-respect. The key is not to let these changes turn into excuses for inaction but to use them as opportunities to rebuild trust and flexibility in our commitments.

Take Ownership of your Power!

Words are powerful. They shape not just how others see us but how we see ourselves. Let’s choose to be impeccable with our word, to build self-trust, and to create a life aligned with our true intentions. If we want to achieve our dreams and create powerful partnerships, the first step is to honour the promises we make—to others and, most importantly, to ourselves.

I hope this article can support you on your journey to freedom and personal fulfilment.

With love,

Thalen Ruggeri