Make a commitment and keep that commitment” is one of my favourite sayings — a principle I practise and preach everywhere I go.
When you make a commitment, your purpose is defined. When you keep that commitment, your character is revealed.
The higher your commitment, the deeper your sense of fulfilment. In Japanese philosophy, it is called Ikigai — the reason for being. The stronger our commitment to meaningful service, the more complete our Ikigai becomes.
As a Rotary member, you are already committed to Service Above Self. Let us begin with simple, tangible commitments. Make a commitment to attend your club meetings regularly. Show up. Participate. Engage. Rotary thrives not merely on ideas, but on presence.
Commit to bringing in new members — individuals who will carry forward the torch of service. Every new member brings fresh energy, fresh networks and fresh possibilities.
If you are in a leadership role — at the club or district level — raise the bar consistently. As we march towards the third quarter of this Rotary year, it is time to stand by and adhere to whatever you had committed to, in your capacity as a club president, district governor, or in any other designation, in the beginning of your tenure, and honour it within the stipulated time.
Strive for positive membership growth. Strengthen your support for The Rotary Foundation. Enhance your public image so that communities clearly see Rotary as a force of credibility and impact. When people see results, it speaks volumes about your leadership.
Why do I emphasise making and keeping commitments so strongly? Because commitment shapes you. It refines your communication, sharpens your decision-making, strengthens your delegation skills. It teaches teamwork, builds resilience and transforms intention into identity.
As the philosopher Ayn Rand said, “The sight of an achievement is the greatest gift a human being could offer others.” Achievement is not accidental. It is the outcome of promises honoured.
Making a commitment to a noble cause is an expression of humanity. Keeping that commitment, despite challenges, distractions and obstacles — that is an expression of something higher. It is the discipline that elevates service into leadership and leadership into legacy.
Rotary does not grow merely because of positions held. It grows because of promises kept.
Let us therefore commit — consciously and consistently. And above all, let us keep every commitment we make — to Rotary, to our communities, and to ourselves.
Because when we do this, we do not just build projects. We build trust. We build credibility. We build a community committed to Unite for Good.
M Muruganandam
RI Director, 2025–27