“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to destroy it.” – Warren Buffett
If there was a guarantee that a person would always do right by us, act in our best interest, and never do us harm, there would be no need for TRUST because there would be no risk. Trust is an act of faith. Whether you need to build trust or rebuild trust, here are some ways to do that.
Extend yourself first
If we want to be trusted, we need to show that we are worthy of trust. One way to show this is to extend our trust first by exposing our vulnerabilities. Of course, sharing your vulnerability is risky, but so is trust. So maybe start slow, and as your partner proves themselves trustworthy, begin building. But this is a two-way street. They have to expose their vulnerabilities too, otherwise you are taking all the risks.
Show you want to stick around
By taking a look into the future and making a plan to do something together, you are placing your mutual trust in the belief there will be a future where you are both together. That may sound very simple, but sometimes it’s a very simple thing that builds trust.
Differences can bond
When there is no trust, it is not easy to accept that your partner has interests that do not involve you. One way to show trust exists is to take time for yourself, and to encourage your partner to do the same.
Step out of your comfort zone
Anything worth having needs to be tested to make sure it works. That can apply to your car, your computer, etc. It applies to trust as well.
Our daily lives offer us predictability and stability, and trust can be tested there, but nothing tests trust better than being thrown into an adventure. Adventures are fun and challenging because they are full of the unexpected. So what is a good adventure? It could be driving to a new town and getting to know the people in the local diner. It could be as simple as a walk through an area you don’t know very well. The possibilities are endless.
So build your trust. Nurture it. Prove to your partner you are trustworthy. Create a safe place for them to prove it in return. It doesn’t eliminate the risk of trust, but it lets you enjoy the rewards of faith both given and received.
