Be True to Your Word

People respect those who are true to their word. It's a sign of integrity and character to mean what you say and to do what you say you're going to do. On the flip side, people lose respect for those who do not keep their word and thus disappoint others.

Here are some ways that you can be true to your word and build and hold onto lasting relationships:

Don't say you'll do something if you can't.

If someone asks you for a favor or asks for volunteers to do something, don't say yes or volunteer unless you will actually follow through and fulfill your obligation. How many times have people said to you, "Sure, I'll help you" and then when the day comes, they're nowhere to be found?

Don't say you want to do something if you really don't want to.

Own your feelings about something. For instance, when you're with a group of friends and they're all planning to do something that you don't really like doing, don't go along with the rest and say "sure", if your heart isn't into it and you won't end up participating anyway. Many people succumb to peer pressure and say "Sure, I'm up for it.", only to cancel later because they didn't want to do it in the first place.

Don't make promises that you won't keep.

Be careful when you say, "I promise". If you can't live up to a promise, don't promise anything. People are very disappointed in those who can't keep a promise and eventually view them as untrustworthy.

If in doubt, don't say yes right away.

If you're invited to an event, and aren't sure if you are really able to go or not, communicate that to those involved. Simply let them know that you're not sure if you can attend or not and that you'll get back to them as soon as possible. People would rather you tell them that right at the beginning and only say yes, if you truly can come.

If you say you'll get back to someone, don't leave him or her hanging.

When you leave people hanging about your decision about something, people become irritated and lose interest in you. If you do this constantly, you may lose friends. Getting back to others as soon as possible shows respect for them and their feelings.

Don't cancel at the last minute.

Whatever you do, don't cancel out of an invitation at the last minute after saying you'll be there, unless its for a truly legitimate reason. It's extremely inconsiderate to cancel out of something at the last minute or even worse, to not show up at all without any communication. A lot of planning, thought and money is put into hosting a get together or party. Unless it's an emergency, do not cancel out at the last minute.

If you make, Being a Person of Your Word one of your core values, you'll see how you will develop and retain long lasting quality relationships. You'll also see who your true friends are and weed out those who do not share the same value(s).