Have you ever promised someone you'd do something (or be somewhere), but then a 'better' opportunity comes along shortly thereafter?
Maybe you promised to help a friend move on Saturday, but then you get an offer for courtside tickets to a big game.
…Or maybe you promised your child that you'd coach their youth sports team, but then you get a call from a major investor who wants to meet at the same time to negotiate a big deal.
To me, it’s a test of integrity, a moment where our principles are on the line. Do we flake on our commitments for the temptation of potential gain? Or do we stand firm, honoring our word?
Not long ago, I faced a similar challenge.
As a board member of EO Atlanta, I was set to attend our annual Board Strategy Summit. But then, out of the blue, I got an invite to speak at a HubSpot conference with hundreds of potential clients.
An incredible opportunity, right?
Naturally, my team’s reaction was: "Wow! That’s huge! You HAVE to speak!”
I could see the excitement in their eyes…HUNDREDS of ideal clients gathered in one place hearing our message?
But here's the thing—Commitment means something to me. I believe in the power of being a man of my word.
I had given my word to EO Atlanta that I would be there and contribute, as the previous year I was not able to attend due to a prior commitment.
And if there's one thing I've learned throughout my career, it's that the integrity of your word is the foundation of your character and your business.
So what did I do?
I stayed true to my promise.
I went to the summit, not only to fulfill my obligation but to fully engage without the nagging thought of 'What If'.
At the summit, we discussed the topic of thinking big, and it reminded me of a recent book I read, "10X is Easier than 2X" by Dr. Ben Hardy. 👇
I offered to give every board member a free copy as a personal gift, so I personally purchased 25 books (one for each board member). It was my way of contributing, of planting a seed without expecting anything in return.
And here's where things take an interesting turn…
After handing out the books the next day and speaking at the summit, something unexpected happened. Connections were made, conversations sparked, and people reached out to me to connect further.
I had lunches, meetings, and meaningful interactions with several other members who were there.
Somehow, (without intending to), I had created a ripple effect. By simply honoring a commitment, providing value, and sharing something I believed in, I laid the groundwork for future opportunities and collaborations.
Isn't it crazy how the universe works?
We often want to chase after the big fish (Hubspot in this scenario), often forgetting that it's the small, consistent acts that build the ocean we fish in.
And in the weeks that followed, I noticed a shift. Those seeds I had planted started to sprout. People reached out for advice, partnerships, and referrals, seeing the genuine value I could add.
It's a testament to a principle I’ve held since childhood: The power of commitment.
Keeping your word, (even when you don’t think there’s much in it for you or if better alternatives present themselves), builds a reputation of reliability and trustworthiness—Qualities that are priceless in business and life.
Over the years, I've often been asked, "Why do you do so much when there's no immediate payoff?" And my answer is simple: I'm planting seeds.
I genuinely believe that much of the success I enjoy today is the harvest from the seeds I've sown throughout my life.
So, in theory, was it a better business move for me to attend the HubSpot conference?
On paper…Sure, yeah, maybe.
But at the same time… I would have sacrificed my integrity for an “illusion” of something better.
So, what's the moral of this story?
First, plant a lot of seeds. Be generous with your knowledge, your resources, and your time.
And second, honor your commitments. If you say you're going to do something, do it—Even if something seemingly better comes along.
To your success,
David
