"Because I said I would" is a powerful statement. These few words validate our integrity.

As a youth, I ran in a 300-mile charitable relay from Prescott, Arizona to Palm Spring, California. The plan was to have 30 guys each run 10-miles over the three day period. Only a dozen runners with minimal training showed up. We began running in one-mile increments, dwindling to quarter-mile increments by the time we arrived at Palm Springs City Hall. IcyHot was our friend.

We donated all proceeds to the Shriner's Hospital for Children, Burn Unit. The commitment to the donors, sponsors, and kids, propelled us through the pain to the finish line.

What are your stories of pushing through resistance to stay true to your commitment?

Is there a diploma on the wall, a habit kicked, battle scars on your back, kids through college, or medals in a trophy case?

Recounting these stories reinforce resolve to do hard things and push through to finish the job. Regardless if the promise was to ourselves or another, our commitment hangs in the air until resolved. Based on previous successes, there is a path forward and can be entered with confidence.

Between the internal resistance and the negativity of the world around us, it is critical to have a reminder of your successes.  Write them down, and may tonight you have another to add to the list.