Most people are familiar with these famous lyrics: “Winter, spring, summer, or fall, all you have to do is call and I’ll be there. Yes I will, you’ve got a friend.” If you’ve got a friend like that, hold on to them, because they are a great example of dependability. If you are a friend like that to others I’m sure they appreciate your dependability.

Dependability means to be worthy of other’s trust; to be reliable. One exhibits dependability by fulfilling what he or she consented to do, even if it means unexpected sacrifice. Demonstrating dependability is not always convenient. If it was, everyone would be dependable.

Author Walter Wangerin Jr. said “The strongest trust is built by the smallest actions, the keeping of the little promises. It is the constant truthfulness, the continued dependability, the remembrance of minor things, which most inspire confidence and faith.”

Dependability is not just what we say, but rather in the accompanying actions that prove our word is our bond. Dependability alleviates the worry and angst that often comes from empty words and promises not kept. True dependability brings about trust in the hearts and minds of those whom we have given our word, and a peaceful knowing that they will not be left out in the cold.

It is much more important to model dependability than it is to have ability in a certain area. How many times have we seen athletes with great ability whose careers were in constant flux because of their lack of dependability? The fact is, dependability always trumps talent. Zig Ziglar said “Ability is important in our quest for success, but dependability is critical.” Writer Robert A. Heinlein said, “Ability is a wonderful thing, but its value is greatly enhanced by dependability.

The great thing about dependability is that you’re not born with or without it. It is simply a decision one makes to be a person whom others can trust and rely on. Dependability is not perfection, but a quest to always be a person who follows through knowing that others are counting on you.