Commitments are More Powerful When They Are Active, Public, and Effortful

Commitments are most effective when they are active, public, and effortful. These three factors work together to create a powerful force that shapes our future behavior.

Active Commitments

Active commitments are more powerful than passive ones. When we actively do something, it has a greater impact on our self-image than if we just passively agree to it. For example, writing something down is more powerful than just thinking it.

Public Commitments

Public commitments are more powerful than private ones. When we make a commitment in front of others, we feel a greater need to be consistent with that commitment. This is because we want to be seen as consistent and reliable by others.

Effortful Commitments

The more effort that goes into a commitment, the more powerful it will be. This is because we value things more when we have to work for them. For example, a person who goes through a difficult and embarrassing hazing ritual to join a fraternity will be more committed to that fraternity than someone who is simply asked to join. This is because the effort required to join the fraternity makes the commitment more valuable.