Trust is a fundamental cornerstone of successful relationships. It creates stability, transparency, and respect. It is a character trait that people value and look for in others. It is synonymous with integrity, being honorable, and fair. Are you trustworthy? Do you trust yourself?
Being a trustworthy person doesn’t just happen. It takes commitment, dedication, and a choice to living an honest life. To trust yourself and to be trusted by others, you have to be accountable in all areas of your life. If you are human, you know as well as I do, that this can sometimes be a challenge.
Here are Nine tips to help you become a trustworthy person:
- Keep your commitment in word and deed. If you say you are going to do something, do it. If you make plans with someone, be there. Seeing things through is the trademark of a trustworthy person.
- Be honest. Even when the outcome will not be in your favor, tell the truth. This shows you have good character, which builds trust.
- Be transparent. When you make a mistake, admit it. This shows that you are able to take responsibility for your actions without blaming others.
- Be on time. When you are late, you are showing people that you don’t value them or their time. You are also showing the that you have a hard time keeping your commitments.
- Keep confidences. If someone has told you something, it is because they trust you. Do not share this information with others. Guard the person’s business carefully.
- Don’t gossip. Talking negatively about others behind their backs erodes trust. Remember if people gossip with you, they will gossip about you.
- Apologize. If you have done something wrong, admit it quickly and ask what you can do to make it right.
- Be predictable. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you. Be the person who is steady in the room.
- Set the tone. Your attitude will cause a ripple effect with others. Make sure that the ripple effect is positive.
Trusting yourself and others takes time. I encourage you to choose one or two of these tips to put into practice this week. As you change, so will your relationships, including the one you have with yourself. If you would like to learn more about becoming a trustworthy person, please schedule a 30-minute complimentary session.
