Develop a reputation for doing the things you promise (and promise only the things you can do!).

Have you ever promised to do something yet failed to do it? Once? Twice? Often? This is a challenge for many of us. Yet for all of us, whether in leadership or not, the last thing we want is for people to see that our words and commitments mean nothing to us. Our colleagues, bosses and the people under our leadership want to be able to trust in our words and promises.

Develop a reputation for doing the things you have agreed to do. Big or small, it doesn't matter, if you promise it then do it at all cost. When people see that you mean the things you say and promise, they will not only respect you for that, they will also do their best to not let you down when they promise you they will do something. What you give out to others is what they give back to you, simple. 

A challenge in upholding our promises is over-promising. We say yes to things we either do not want to do or know we can't do. You should never promise what you know you will not be able to do. Remember, anytime you make a promise to do something, you are putting your reputation on the line and adding to your plate. Only promise the things you are sure you are going to be able to follow through on. You have only 24 hours in your day, you already have demands on your time and energy, only agree to do other things you have capacity to handle efficiently. Sometimes you have to kindly say no, reschedule for another time or recommend someone else to do it instead. Saying no is sometimes the wisest and most responsible thing to do. Promising to do it and not being able to do so is really what you should fear.

Perhaps more important, do your best to never promise anything that goes against your values. Your values are the things you stand for, they are the strict principles you adhere to as you try to achieve you personal vision. Any time I had promised to do something against my values, I ended up either not doing it, feeling like I betrayed myself (which definitely has a serious impact on my self esteem and confidence), or felt disgruntled afterwards.

So, develop a reputation for doing the things you promise and promise only the things you can do.