I know that I have limits and as such, I try my best not to make promises because I don't want to disappoint. I know how painful it is when someone makes a promise to me only to end up disappointing, so I do my best to avoid putting myself in that shoe.
One promise which I could not keep was sometime about 5 years ago when I received fantastic gifts from a friend on my birthday. I was so happy and overwhelmed that I promised to reciprocate the gesture.
Immediately I made this promise, I remembered that I was not as financially buoyant as him and also he was not expecting anything in return but it was already late, I already promised.
As his birthday drew nearer, I began to panic because I had not even saved a significant amount of money to reciprocate.
On his birthday, I was able to get him a few gifts although far less than my plan but luckily he understood and didn't even talk about it. Since then, I do my best to not make promises.
If the money is there, I would do my best but it will come as a surprise. That way, I am able to do good without raising expectations.
Many people have disappointed me by making promises but not being able to hold their end of the bargain. One that stands out for me was many years ago when an uncle promised to buy me a bicycle. I was excited and elated at the idea of having my own bicycle. I would say dream about riding it and continue dreaming at night.
Days turned to weeks and weeks turned to months and even years yet, my bicycle never came.
With time I grew up and didn't need a bicycle but seeing this prompt, that was what immediately came to my mind.
There are so many reasons why a failed promise could be understood because of the reasons behind it. Humans are allowed to have second thoughts. It is very common to decide to do something and later change your mind especially after thinking about it more. It's also possible to have the means to do something then suddenly, situations change and you are not longer capable of meeting up.
Sometimes, that's what happens after a promise and the person finds out he is incapable of following through with his promises, he may begin to dodge or hide or even come out plainly to tell U the truth.
Which is why for me, the best thing is not promise in the first place. Rather, surprise the person when the resources are available. People appreciate surprises and a pleasant surprise is better than a disappointment.
Image(s) are mine