When success is often measured by tangible outcomes and achievements, it is easy to overlook the intangible yet powerful force that underpins all meaningful interactions: trust.
About trust
Did you know that an average adult makes around 33,000 to 35,000 decisions every day? From what to eat and what to wear, to what to say and how to say it, our daily choices add up quickly. Trust plays a crucial role in our decision-making process as we consistently assess one key factor: whether a decision will enhance our safety or put us at risk.
Why is trust important?
Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, trust forms the foundation upon which psychological safety is built, leading to improved outcomes and deeper connections. When people feel trusted, they are more likely to take risks, share ideas openly, and engage in constructive dialogue. This environment of psychological safety leads to greater innovation, creativity, and overall well-being. Without trust, communication breaks down, collaboration falters, and progress stagnates.
The dangers of low self-trust
It can be incredibly validating when others appreciate our efforts and achievements. However, relying solely on external sources for this can be a slippery slope. It can and does lead to:- People pleasing - other people's opinions having more weight than your own
- Perfectionism - holding yourself to the highest possible (impossible) standards
- Imposter Syndrome - feeling like a fake who will be found out
- Lack of confidence - terrified to make mistakes and so afraid to try
- Fear of making decisions - what if you get it wrong?
- General sense of being unfulfilled - that vague sense that all is not right
The solution to this is to invest in self-trust. This is when you recognize and commit to the development of your internal skill-set that is crucial for you to be able to navigate and enjoy the external successes that you've created.
How to develop self-trust?
- Get to know yourself really, really well. One way of doing this is by exploring and naming your core values - the fundamental beliefs that guide your behaviour and decision-making processes.
- Honour who you are. This involves accepting and appreciating your strengths, weaknesses, and unique qualities that make you who you are and making intentional decisions to honour and protect your values.
- Practice setting boundaries. This shows yourself that your feelings and well-being are important which strengthens that feeling of having your own back.
- Take small risks often. Each time you successfully navigate a small risk, whether it's trying something new or facing a fear, you reinforce your belief in your abilities and resilience strengthening your self-trust.
What benefits can I expect from having self-trust?
Self-trust will provide you with a strong sense of confidence in your abilities, decisions, and actions. It allows you to rely on your own judgment, intuition, and values, leading to increased self-reliance and independence.
With strong self-trust, you are more likely to take risks, pursue your goals with determination, and handle challenges with resilience. Self-trust can help you build a positive self-image and develop a strong sense of fulfillment based on authenticity. And paradoxically, you'll likely be more successful as a result!
