Commitment

For the first time in 14 years, I’m not wearing my wedding ring. No, my wife hasn’t come to her senses and tossed me overboard (and I hope she never does). I cut my finger and my ring was digging into the spot. Painfully. But I don’t like not wearing my ring. Like the old “tie a string around your finger” trick, it’s a reminder of a deep, meaningful commitment. It’s a reminder of responsibility. It’s a reminder of more than 14 years of my life, its ups and downs, and, of course, of who helped me through it all.

Businesses don’t often recognize commitment. Some would argue they don’t make commitments, willing to toss aside employees at the first sign of financial hardship. But I don’t believe that – not for all, anyway – and especially not among small businesses. You demonstrate commitment every day, in the way you treat your employees, your customers, your neighbors. It may not be as culturally meaningful or as universally recognized as a ring, but the counsel you give, the service you provide, the support you offer symbolizes commitment, too. So celebrate your commitment. And watch you don’t hurt your finger.