Commitment to Others

There is a saying in the world of sports that says, “The best ability is availability.” The phrase is used to emphasize the idea that it doesn’t matter how talented or impactful a player is if they are oftentimes injured and fail to see the field. The best player on the team can have very little impact on the outcome of any game if they are hurt all of the time. Meaning, a less skilled player can have much more of an impact if they are consistently on the field. Availability in sports can be described as a teammate’s commitment to the other members of the team. By being available, they are able to support, defend, and go to war with their teammates. Commitment to those around you extends far beyond the world of sports because humans are a social species. Humans are a social species who yearn for and need interaction with others. In these interactions, it’s important to know who and for what, you can count on.

Saying no to others and prioritizing yourself is not a selfish act. The most successful people in the world have an uncanny ability to prioritize their time. With this ability comes the frequent denial of others. “No” is as common a statement as breathing. However, saying no to others and prioritizing yourself doesn’t mean you should remove yourself from any commitment to those around you. If people close to you are in need, you should continue to sacrifice and make yourself available. You should continue to commit to them. It doesn’t mean you need to cater to all of their needs but part of the human experience is understanding, recognizing, and acting when those around you could use some help.

The commitment to others works both ways. People are aware when you help them out. People are aware when you sacrifice for them or provide them with favors. People notice when you are dependable and when you can be counted on. In return, they should act similarly toward you. If you are ever in need, you should have people you can count on. Committing to others promotes symbiotic relationships, not parasitic ones. When people receive help, they naturally want to provide help.

Turning to help those in need, to commit to those around you, is part of the human experience. As humans, we aren’t forced to live and roam the Earth alone. We are able to turn to those beside us and receive and distribute aid. Through providing your commitment to others, you will, in turn, receive their commitment and will find your life in a better place than if you had chosen to stick to yourself. You’re a human, commit to those around you.