What I promise – and what I can keep

Sometimes you make a promise: to give, to help, to act.

This chapter will help you to discover what you truly want to promise and what you can keep.

🛠️  Three steps

 

1. Make a small clarification – for yourself

  • What did I promise?

  • Why did I say it?

  • What am I actually able to do?

→ You may be honest – without overwhelming yourself.

2. Make a small decision – based on your own judgement

  • I may promise something – but only if I can keep it.

  • I may take back a promise if it no longer feels right – but only in an emergency.

  • I may clearly say: "I cannot promise this."

→ You may be reliable – without bending yourself.

3. Make a small gesture – for your clarity

  • Write down what you truly want to keep.

  • Be honest with people about what you can and can't do.

  • Take a small step towards what you have promised.


→ You are allowed to be clear, balanced and effective.

🧾  Mini-exercise: What I promise – and what I check beforehand

 

What I check Why? Can I keep it? My decision
I’ll help with cleaning up Because I wish to belong Yes, I can manage 10 minutes I say: "I can help for 10 minutes."
I'll give €5 Because I wish to help No, I only have 2€ I say: "Today I cannot make a promise."
I’ll come tomorrow Because I wish to be appreciated Yes, the afternoon is fine I say: "I can come in the afternoon."

 

→ You may check first – and then make a clear promise.

🕊️  Closing impulse

 

You are allowed to check honestly – before you promise.

You may say No – instead of giving a false Yes.

You may be reliable – in what you truly promise.

You may keep your word – fully and clearly.