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Like so many other words, the word “commitment” has different meanings for different people. I prefer the dictionary meaning, which defines commitment as “to bind or obligate, as by pledge or assurance.”
In addition to having different meanings, commitment also comes in many different forms. I categorize commitment as formal or informal.
A formal commitment can be described as an explicit understanding between parties that have clearly entered into an agreement. Much like a contract, commitments have binding implications for all involved.
A formal commitment we can all relate to is the one we make when we buy a car; unless you have a lot of money, you will need a loan from a financial institution. In this case, the bank commits to lending you the money and you commit to repaying the principle plus interest. Straight forward, right? Informal commitments are a different story.
In my experience, we have the most problems with informal commitments. Maybe it is because there is no contract or formal agreement when we get into this type of commitment, or perhaps because they are not viewed as “true” commitments. Let’s say that Dad asks Johnny if he will mow the lawn on Saturday and Johnny agrees. There is no contract between Johnny and Dad, but Johnny knows he will mow the lawn on Saturday. While there is a chance Johnny will do his part, there is also the possibility he might forget because he is not truly committed.
I believe the reason informal commitments come back to haunt us is that we get into them without even knowing. For example, you tell your 7-year-old daughter that you will take her camping, but something happens and you don’t follow through.
Though you try hard to explain the situation, all she knows is that the camping trip is off. Children are resilient and will easily find something else to fill the void. But as the camping trip is postponed week after week, she will soon realize Dad’s lack of commitment is the only thing she can count on.
Not fulfilling our commitments can adversely affect our credibility. Air Force members are committed to living their core values. Members are also committed to never leave an Airman behind. However, we continue to see Airmen who physically, emotionally and sexually assault other Airmen.
I don’t think we need another class or need to sign a document stating we will not assault another Airman or any person for that matter. Our pledge to live the Air Force core values is the binding agreement we’ve entered into when we began wearing the uniform. We must keep our end of the bargain or risk losing credibility for a lack of commitment!
