Writing down our commitments has been shown to have more longevity and greater results than just saying we will do something.  The idea behind “promise cards” is quite simple.  Have a card that you write your commitment on and give it to someone you want to either keep you accountable, help you along, or that you want to know that you will keep your word.  When you have fulfilled your promise, you will get that card back to hold onto as a reminded of the accomplishment and the commitment you have kept.

This is an ongoing project that you can jump start at anytime but it is great to use one of the traits of the week that relate to have this project begin.

Here’s what to do:
  1. You’ll need to get some “promise cards”
    I have put together a simple and fun craft activity for the family if you want to make some cards to get you started.  If you don’t have time or you could order some cards at becauseisaidiwould.com (the first 10 are free).
  2. Introduce the cards to the family
    The cards are a simple way or communicating a commitment or a promise that anyone is making to another person or even to themselves.

    • When you want to make a commitment you will pick up a card and write (or have someone help you write) the commitment you are making on the card.
    • You then give the card to the person you are making a promise to.  If it is a promise to yourself then you will give the card to someone who will encourage you and cheer you on when you complete it.
    • When you complete the commitment you will go to the person who has the card and request the card back by telling them how you fulfilled your commitment!  Write the date on the card to indicate when it was completed
    • You will now get to keep your card and put it on a wall or in a “commitment building box” to celebrate and remember!
  3. Take opportunities to highlight and celebrate successes of the family
    It might start with small promises but character building starts with small steps.  Take time to reward and encourage family members in small and big steps.  Some ideas:

    • You can give a prize to the person who completed the most cards each week
    • You can give a prize to the person who completed the biggest commitment each week

You’re all ready to go!  As you are doing this as a family there are two things I would encourage you to keep in mind to really make this valuable for the family:

  • Find opportunities to challenge your family to make commitments to God and to honor Him in little and big ways.  Parents should demonstrate this for your kids.
  • Make sure you talk about the value of commitment, perseverance, sacrifice, and other character traits more than the task itself.  Don’t focus on the result above the character.

Share your stories with us!  What has worked well for your family?

Thank you to Alex Sheen and his innovative idea at becauseisaidiwould.com.  Check out his site if you’d like to learn more about his project or see other ways you can use these cards.