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Are You Writing Checks that Your Calendar Can’t Cash?

Check Sign

Payment Promises: A Simple System for Accountability

Check Sign

With all the electronic payment options, we don’t write as many checks as in the past.  But when we do, we’ve grown to learn that our signature at the bottom means the money will be in the bank when the check is cashed.

A check is a promise to pay.  The banks hold you to your promise and enforce strict consequences for insufficient funds including bounced/returned checks, overdraft fees or even closing your account. If you’ve experienced any of these deterrents, you’re aware of them every time you sign a check and make sure you keep that payment promise and comply.

What About Your Other Promises?

Outside of the banking system, we make all sorts of other promises. With our non-monetary promises, the consequences are seemingly less stringent. Or maybe they’re merely less closely monitored.

  • Returning a borrowed item on time
  • Showing up on time
  • Showing up prepared
  • Cancelling a meeting or call
  • Meeting a deadline
  • Keeping routine promises

What are Your Excuses?

Here are the most common:

  • I got too busy
  • I forgot
  • Something unexpected came up

How do you feel when you hear these excuses from others?   What does it do to your ability to trust them in the future?

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Insufficient Funds vs. Insufficient Time

Related Consequences

In both situations, you’re likely failing to deliver on a promise.  Broken promises destroy your integrity.  Both money and time are scarce, finite resources.   Unless you effectively manage these resources, you’ll be out of money and out of integrity.  Fiscally and morally bankrupt.

Perhaps you’re proficient with your finances and rarely bounce a check.  Are you equally proficient with your calendar?  Or do you occasionally write a check that your calendar can’t cash?  When either occurs, what happens to:

  • Your reputation?
  • Your integrity?
  • Your ability to build trust with the people you lead?

Wise Words For Your Personal Pursuit of Excellence

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” –  Will Durant

What about Self-Accountability?

Whether or not you’re challenged with delivering on the commitments to others, an even greater challenge is honoring the commitments you make to yourself.

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