It has been said that half the battle is simply showing up, I couldn’t agree more. I recently read an article that talks about relationships and how many people fail to recognize the importance of sticking with someone in the good times as well as bad ones. I think too often than not we are all guilty of placing to much importance on the warm fuzzy feelings that are experienced in the beginning stages of a new relationship. A spark is definitely necessary; however, after time this will lessen and hopefully be replaced with a new kind of love. A love that is centered around compassion, respect, and most importantly dependability!
Some advice that I received a few years ago on relationships has stayed at the forefront in my mind. What was this simple yet profound advice? My cousin told me if you can’t trust her then you may as well find another. It is true if you cannot trust your partner then who can you trust? Are you the type of person someone else can trust? I think it is just as important for you to be the type of person you want in someone else. There will enviably be times when things are not going your way, how do you respond in such situations? Do you get upset? Do you place blame on others? Do you become standoffish? This time of the year is an excellent time to do a personal inventory of yourself. Sometimes all it takes is some self reflection to turn things around.
Dependability is defined as, “capable of being dependable, trustworthy; reliable.” Everyone of those qualities are essential in finding success in any area of life. If you are a dependable employee then you better believe you will be fast tracked to move up within your organization. Dependability in athletics will undoubtedly yield greater success than an immensely talented player who cannot be counted on. Take for example Josh Gordon. Josh is one of the most talented receivers in the NFL, a season ago he lead the league in receiving yards despite only playing in 12 games. His talent has been diminished because of off-field issues with the law. It cost him this season as he was suspended for 10 games. All of the concerns over his dependability forced the Cleveland Browns to consider cutting Gordon this past offseason.
I want to challenge everyone to be more dependable, be someone that can be counted on! As you do this you will have a greater relationship with those people you value. Friends will be much more willing to reciprocate acts of service and kindness. Your significant other will also feel more comfortable knowing that you will stick by there side when things are good as well as when things are off. I think the greatest test of someone’s love for someone else can be determined in how you treat that person when they are not at their best. It is easy to love someone when things are going well. Ask yourself can this person be counted on when things are rough? Will they be by my side if I am sick? I hope that we can all develop and become more dependable!
Nunc Coepi 