Lacking willpower?  Having difficulty sticking to your budget or diet or career goal? Then as the website Stickk announces, “put a contract out on yourself.” You sign up with a goal in mind, then make a promise to donate money or do something that you really don’t want to do, such as donate money to an opposing political party or organization. To keep you honest, you select another person who determines whether or not you have really been doing what you are supposed to do. The site has good intentions.

The “commitment contracts” are also ways to help users reach their goals – if you pony up some cash toward a charity (or a person) you really don’t want to give money to, then you will definitely work harder toward achieving your goal.

Many of the examples on the Stickk site are weight loss and exercise goals, and some personal project type goals – work on a novel, a few are work related.  The site is interesting, though I can see ways in which people may cheat, especially if they are just putting up cash. Having to spend your time on a project you wouldn’t want to do , such as volunteering for a charity you don’t like or helping a cranky relative would also be a deterrent and keep you on track. Referees also have to report on whether or not you are honoring your contract. Users do not have to have a referee, but must rely willpower and honesty.

Willpower and determination also make a difference when you are making a commitment. A commitment contract seems to be like too much trouble to me. If it is something that you really want to do, then set a goal and do it on your own. Having to report online and informing everyone you know about I will not necessarily make you more successful.

Low on willpower, tend to quit what you set out to do… then Stickk may make you do it.