Are you trustworthy?

It has been said time and time again, that trust is one of the most fundamental pillars of human life. 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. How many of us are willing to be this dedicated and responsible? Often times we desire it from others, but find it so difficult to live up to this same expectation from others.

The following are some tips to help you develop as a trustworthy person:

1. 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 and sticking to your word is the trademark of a trustworthy person. Remember your word is your bond.

2. Be honest. Even when the outcome will not be in your favour, tell the truth. This shows you have good character, which builds trust. Try also to avoid situations where you deceive others by omission of information as well; these can be very tricky to navigate and can cause others to second guess your motives.

3. Be transparent. When you make a mistake, admit it. This shows that you are able to take responsibility for your actions without blaming others.

4. Be on time. This is one of my major pet peeves generally. When you are late, you are showing people that you don’t value them or their time. You are also showing that you have a hard time keeping your commitments.

5. 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. There is a major, especially when we consider that we too, share information with others that we would like to be protected. Do unto others as you would like done to you.

6. Don’t gossip. Talking negatively about others behind their backs erodes trust. Remember if people gossip with you, they will gossip about you.

7. Apologize. If you have done something wrong, admit it quickly and ask what you can do to make it right.

8. Be predictable. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you. Be the person who is steady in the room; meaning be consistent in front or behind closed doors.

9. 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.