We’re in West Orange, New Jersey attending a very fun and special wedding, and this experience has revealed useful insights for us about the transformational power of commitment.

My wife and I have a secret ritual when attending weddings which I’ll tell you. Early in the ceremony we hand each other our wedding rings. Then, when the bride and groom exchange theirs, we discretely re-exchange ours, renewing our vows and commitment to each other.

It’s a little hokey, but it’s us. Why is it we celebrate weddings? The creation of a new family? The promise of what’s to come for this couple and everyone and everything that they touch? Sure, it’s a great party, but so much more!

I think another reason is that we know, consciously or unconsciously, commitment changes you. These amazing people, who we love, are now one and each individually transformed. Because of their profound, public commitment, they’re now more capable than before. And just wait ’til they have kids!

I think we often get this backward, thinking commitment comes last. First I’ll get ready, prepared, become capable, then make the commitment. But that’s not exactly how it works. Once you’re all in, you become the person that is required because you must. You stretch into the uncertainty, and then the uncertainty stretches you.

What commitment do you need to make to tap your greater potential? Is it a relationship? A new job or position? Higher learning? Or becoming a mentor to someone? If you have clarity about what you deeply desire, then it’s likely time to commit.

You’ll never know the person you can become until you make a commitment. It’s a leap of faith and a lifelong process that is worthy of celebration. Until next week, stay Off Balance On Purpose.