Burn the ships: What commitment really means
In 1519, Cortez taught his crew a lesson in commitment they’d never forget. Landing on Mexico’s eastern shore, his men were exhausted, homesick, and yearning for Spain. They spent their days gazing at the ships in the harbour, dreaming of a return to the life they knew.
Cortez saw the problem
His men weren’t committed to their mission. While they were on the shore they longed to get on the boat. His solution? Drastic, but effective. He burned the ships. This gave the crew no way back and no escape plan. They had to stay and commit—or perish.
It’s a dramatic story
But the thing is, commitment in any area of life often requires the same single-minded determination. Yet, how often do we cling to the safety of the past instead of truly committing to our goals and eliminating the option of failure? And how much do we miss because of it?
First-hand lessons in commitment
Years ago, I learned a similar lesson the hard way (though thankfully, no ships were harmed in the process). When I lived in France for a year, I initially spent most of my time feeling homesick. My focus wasn’t on the beauty of the Loire Valley or the rich culture surrounding me—it was on everything I missed about ‘home.’
But when I returned to England for Christmas, reality hit me like a soggy mince pie. The short, grey winter days greeted me with icy roads and fog. My friends had moved on, and my family had gone to Jamaica for the holidays (without me—might I add).
My nostalgic vision of ‘home’ had been more fantasy than reality.
That realisation shook me awake. I returned to France with a new mindset, determined to commit fully to living in the present. It was a game-changer.
Fast-forward to New Zealand
When I moved to New Zealand a few years later, I made myself a promise: no more living with one foot in the past. I committed to embracing my new life fully. Homesickness still popped up now and then, but I reminded myself of what I loved about New Zealand and why I’d chosen to be here.
It wasn’t always easy, but it was worth it.
Why we keep a foot in both camps
Many people struggle to commit fully to their goals, whether it’s a new career, a relationship, or even a lifestyle change. Often, it’s because they keep a metaphorical ship anchored just in case things don’t work out.
Aspiring entrepreneurs may keep a part-time job ‘for security.’ While practical in the short term, it can split their focus and limit their ability to succeed in business.
Then there’s the person in a relationship who always has one eye open for someone ‘better.’ Without full commitment, they’re not really present—and it shows.
“Unless commitment is made, there are only promises and hopes, but no plans.” Peter Drucker
How Burning the Ships applies to you
Cortez’s drastic move—burning the ships—was about eliminating the option to retreat. While you don’t need to set actual fires, the principle can be life-changing.
Here’s where I see people hesitate to commit:
- Relationships: Staying half-in because you fear missing out on “better” options.
- Learning and Training: You think you need to study “just a bit more” before you take action and implement what you’ve learned. Classic procrastination right there.
- Career: Complaining about a job or boss instead of committing to a change.
- People who want to start their own business but keep a steady job for security.
- Health Goals: Falling back into old habits when the initial excitement wears off.
Avoid the knee-jerk bail-out
When times get tough, it’s easy to think about bailing out. But often, this is a knee-jerk reaction born of fear or discomfort. True commitment—sticking with a goal even when it’s hard—brings greater rewards, a sense of achievement, and the self-esteem boost that comes from following through.
How to strengthen your commitment
If you find yourself wavering on a goal, ask:
- Have I given it 100% commitment? Be honest. If you’re still holding onto a safety net, you might not be giving your best.
- What would happen if I burned my ships? Removing the escape route often creates urgency, focus, and that can-do attitude we all secretly crave.
Make commitment a daily practice
Cortez’s story is extreme, but the principle is universal. Commitment requires action, persistence, and sometimes discomfort. It means focusing fully on where you’re going, not where you’ve been. Just remember, you don’t have to go it alone. I can help you with my Coaching and Mentoring Programme.
So, the next time you’re tempted to retreat, ask yourself:
What ships do I need to burn to truly move forward?
It’s easy to keep one foot in the comfort zone while trying to step into something new. But this “half in, half out” approach can prevent true commitment.
Without fully dedicating yourself, you risk missing out on the growth and rewards that come from taking full ownership of your choices.
So, take a deep breath, muster some courage, and channel your inner Cortez. Burn those ships—metaphorically, of course—and go all in. The rewards are worth it.
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Tags: Authenticity, Health and wellbeing, Motivation and taking action, Thinking and mindset
