Where This Came From
I didn’t invent this in some tidy office with good lighting. This was born when I was desperate in law school; obese, addicted, and silently screaming for someone, anyone, to hold me accountable. I kept wishing for discipline, but wishing never got me anywhere . Then I learned about contract law and I met a neighbor who agreed to a deal: if I failed my goal, he would donate my money to a charity I hated.
That was the first Personal Performance Contract. And for the first time in my life, I had real stakes. Accountability wasn’t just emotional anymore, it was financial. Painful. Motivating in a way that worked.
It worked.
That was ten years ago and I’ve kept the weight off and the bad habits at bay. The contract isn’t valid anymore because the objective was met, but it isn’t needed because the accountability became hardwired in me; not an external source of pain.
This Contract Saved My Life
This isn’t your average contract. This is a personal dare with real consequences. This contract lets you set a personal goal and if you don’t deliver, your money goes to a charity. Guilt never felt this good. Growth feels better.
What It Does
Defines a specific personal or professional goal with a clear deadline and measurable metrics;
Creates personal accountability with financial consequences;
Someone else holds onto your money until you meet your goal.
When you fail, the amount you designate is sent to someone or a cause you despise.
What It Doesn’t Do
Magically motivate you; this only works when you're serious;
Refund your money if you back out halfway. This is a legitimate and valid contract; you fail, you pay.
Keep you honest; that’s your job. This is an honesty system, but if you fail to report, you lose.
Who Needs to Sign
You & someone you trust.
Does It Need to Be Notarized?
Nope.
Bottom Line
If you’re tired of breaking promises to yourself, this changes the game. Set the goal. Put skin in it. And show yourself what happens when you stop quitting halfway.