Tis the season for making promises and keeping them.  And for cleaning up any communications that need some housekeeping.

The Four Agreements is a powerful book by Don Miguel Ruiz.

Here are the Four Agreements…

  1. Be impeccable with your word.
  2. Don’t take anything personally.
  3. Don’t make assumptions.
  4. Always do your best

Let’s talk about the first one: Be impeccable with your word.

Half truths and misunderstandings hang around our lives like crumbs on the kitchen floor.  How about if we are willing to have the conversations that can help us make good on our word?  Apologize and ask for forgiveness. Find a fix, and a way back. Tis the season.

Another expression that I love is rigorous honesty.  I like the idea of honesty being a verb. That we can consciously assess and improve our communication.

In the video above, I share a story about someone who was not true to their word. In the short run, he saved a little cash.  Now, no amount of money can undo his damaged reputation. I imagine he is still known to his co-workers as the “where’s the shrimp” guy.

Perhaps you have to address a promise, like a holiday bonus.  Maybe now, you can’t make good on it. Or, perhaps you told a joke that wasn’t really funny.  Or, exaggerated a situation. Or, criticized someone in public. Or, crossed a line and put your nose where it didn’t belong.  It’s time to have those challenging conversations. Admit mistakes and make a plan for doing better. Become aligned with who you really are.  Put things in writing. That integrity pays great dividends.

Here’s to getting better and better. Tis the season.

Love love love,

Xox Ellen

PS…Can you tell I wrote this blog for me? My hope is that my words occasionally land with you, too. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

PSS…If you could use some accountability in your business, connect with The Howard Partridge Inner Circle.

Howard helps business owners around the world by guiding them to build systems in their business, and grow as leaders. And I get to work side by side with Howard and watch business owners completely transform their business and personal life. #goosebumps

I recommend getting on his email newsletter and learning more about him. In fact, I know he can help you in these areas – I’ve seen it happen to many business owners!