The Day Traffic Taught Me What Commitment Really Means

Ever been annoyed when someone cancels last minute or shows up late because they were having too much fun elsewhere? It can feel like disrespect, right? But… how often have we done the exact same thing?

When Excuses Take Over

I’ll be honest. For years, I was that person too. Making plans with friends, signing up for classes, stacking back-to-back events… only to cancel last minute (“didn’t feel like it,” “too much traffic”) or show up late because I lingered elsewhere.

It never felt malicious. It just felt… normal. Everyone does it, right?

The Traffic Jam That Exposed My Blind Spot

One day, I was heading to my martial arts class. Pulling out of my driveway, I saw it: bumper-to-bumper traffic. My instant reaction?

"Ugh, this drive is too much. Plus, I have other stuff later. Nah, not today."

I quickly texted my teacher: “Sorry, skipping class. Traffic is crazy.” I turned the car toward my next commitment, thinking no big deal.

But as I drove away, I suddenly saw my blind spot.

This was something I’d fallen into over and over. Canceling when it was easier. Choosing immediate comfort over following through.

Suddenly, I pictured my teacher. He wasn’t making excuses. He was there. On time. Ready. Respecting his commitment to the students who showed up.

And me? I'd ditched him because traffic was annoying and I wasn’t “feeling it.”

That realization stung.

This wasn’t fair to him.

This wasn’t about traffic. This was about fundamental respect. Respect for his time, his effort, and the promise I made.

Choosing Integrity Over Comfort

Right then, I turned the car around.

Traffic or no traffic, “feeling it” or not, I drove straight to class. Walked in late and joined in.

That day stripped away my excuses.

True commitment isn’t just for the easy, fun times. It means showing up, no matter what.
Even when it’s hard, inconvenient, or the last thing you want.

It’s about respecting your word, respecting others’ time, and respecting yourself.

Yes, life happens. Emergencies and real obstacles exist. But often, our last-minute cancellations or lateness aren’t about real barriers—they’re about comfort, mood, or forgetfulness.

What I Choose Now

When that old urge whispers, “Just stay home… skip it…” I remember my teacher waiting. I remember the subtle power of simply showing up.

It’s a conscious choice every single time.

And now? I choose respect. I choose integrity. I choose to be someone others can count on.

Your Turn: Reflection and Connection

Maybe you see yourself here. Maybe you’ve felt the frustration of being canceled on, or sent the “sorry can’t make it” text yourself. No judgment. Just reflection.

What does keeping your word truly mean to you?

How might things change if you treated your commitments — big or small — as promises you do your best to keep, especially on the hard days?

For me, it’s become a cornerstone of living authentically. It builds trust—in myself and with others. It’s showing up as my best self.

Does this resonate? Have you had a moment that redefined commitment for you?
I’d love to hear your story in the comments below, or have a conversation (no-cost). Let’s empower each other to show up.