i am trustworthy essay

Characteristics of Trustworthiness: 15 Top Qualities

Trustworthiness is a characteristic that makes someone trustworthy, honest, and dependable. It implies they follow their commitments, tell the truth, and behave honestly. Trustworthy individuals respect others and themselves, and they appreciate their connections with others. Trust is crucial because it fosters trust, which is necessary in every type of connection, whether personal, professional, or social.

Sanju Pradeepa

Ever wonder what makes someone truly trustworthy? You know, the kind of person you can count on no matter what? The kind of friend who has your back and keeps your secrets safe. The kind of partner or colleague you can rely on when times get tough Trustworthiness is one of the most important qualities in any relationship, but it’s not always easy to determine who has it and who doesn’t.

Lucky for you, there are some key characteristics that the most trustworthy people share. Read on to discover the eight traits that matter most when it comes to trustworthiness. By understanding these, you’ll be able to determine who really deserves your trust and confidence. The truth is, trustworthiness is a two-way street, so you’ll also pick up some tips to become the kind of person others know they can depend on.

Table of Contents

What does it mean to be trustworthy.

To be trustworthy means to be reliable, honest, and dependable. People who exhibit these qualities:

• Do what they say they will do. They follow through on promises and commitments, big or small. If something comes up to prevent them from delivering, they let you know right away.
• are transparent in their actions and words. They don’t hide anything or operate in secret. You’ll never be left wondering what’s really going on or what their hidden agenda might be.
• Keep your confidence confidential. If you share private information with them, they guard it closely and never reveal it to others without your permission. Your secrets are safe with them.
• admit when they’re wrong and make amends. No one is perfect, and they’re willing to take responsibility for their mistakes, say they’re sorry, and work to remedy the situation.
• Provide an honest and accurate view of reality. They call things as they see them and don’t exaggerate or make misleading claims just to make themselves look good. The truth is more important.

To sum up, being trustworthy means conducting yourself with integrity, sincerity, and candor in all of your interactions and relationships. It’s a character trait that is invaluable and the foundation of successful long-term partnerships, both personal and professional.

Characteristics of Trustworthiness

Trustworthiness is a quality that makes people reliable, honest, and dependable. It means that they keep their promises, tell the truth, and act with integrity. Trustworthy people are also respectful of others and themselves, and they show compassion and empathy. Trustworthiness is essential for building strong relationships, whether in personal or professional settings. People who are trustworthy can earn the trust and confidence of others, and they can also enjoy the benefits of trusting themselves.

1. Honesty: They Tell the Truth

Honesty is the foundation of trust. Without it, relationships crumble. When someone is truthful, it shows they respect you enough to be upfront.

Look for people who:

• admit their mistakes. Everyone makes them, so look for those who own up to theirs. They’ll tell you the truth rather than make excuses.
• Share the good and the bad. An honest person tells you the full story, not just what makes them look good. They share their struggles and shortcomings along with their wins.
• Follow through on commitments. If they say they’ll do something, they do it. Their word means something.
• Accept hard truths. It’s easy to be honest when things are good. But when times are tough, look for people who deliver difficult messages with care, compassion, and sincerity.
• admit what they don’t know. No one knows everything, so an honest person will say when they’re unsure or uninformed rather than pretending to be an expert.

The truth may not always be easy, but with honest people in your life, you’ll never have to question where you stand. You’ll know you’re getting the real deal—flaws, failures, and all. And that is the foundation of trust.

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2. reliability: you can count on them.

A trustworthy person follows through on their word. If they say they’ll do something, they do it. You can count on them to be there when you need them.

Reliability is demonstrated through consistency and dependability. Trustworthy people do what they say they’ll do. They don’t make empty promises or excuses. You know that if they commit to a task or help you out in some way, they’ll make it happen.

Dependable people are punctual and meet deadlines. They value your time as much as their own. You never have to wonder if they’ll be late or not show up at all. When they say they’ll call or respond to an email, you can trust that they will do so in a timely manner.

In short, reliable individuals are steadfast and responsible. Their actions and words align. They recognize the importance of following through and the security it provides for relationships. You can rest assured knowing a trustworthy person has your back and will be there when you need them.

Overall, dependability and consistency are foundations for building trust. Look for people in your life who demonstrate these qualities through their actions and words. They are the ones you know you can truly count on.

3. Loyalty: They Have Your Back

Loyal people have your back. They stand up for you when you’re not around and support you through challenges. Loyalty is one of the most valued characteristics in any relationship.

A trustworthy person shows loyalty in several key ways:

• They keep your confidence and secrets safe. Whatever you share in private stays between the two of you. They don’t spread gossip or share sensitive details with others.
• They defend you from unfair criticism. When someone says something untrue or unjustified about you, a loyal friend will stand up for you and set the record straight.
• They make time for you when you need them. Whether you’re going through a difficult life event or just want to grab coffee, loyal friends and partners show up for you. They make your needs and priorities a priority in their family as well.
• They celebrate your wins and successes. When good things happen for you, loyal people are there to congratulate you and share in your joy. They genuinely want the best for you and will support you in achieving your goals and dreams.
• They offer constructive feedback to help you grow. True loyalty means helping someone become a better person. Trustworthy friends and partners will kindly and sensitively share feedback to help you improve, all while maintaining their support and belief in you.

In short, trustworthy individuals demonstrate loyalty through their words, actions, and commitment to the relationship. They help foster an environment where you feel secure being fully yourself.

Characteristics of a Loyal Person: 20 Common Qualities

4. integrity: they do the right thing.

A trustworthy person shows integrity in their words and actions. They do what they say they’ll do and follow through on their promises and commitments.

You can count on someone with integrity to be honest, transparent, and do the right thing—even when no one is watching. They take responsibility for their mistakes and work to make things right. People with integrity have strong moral principles that guide their behavior and choices.

Integrity builds trust. When a person’s words and actions align, you know you can rely on them. You have confidence that they’ll keep your secrets confidential and maintain appropriate boundaries. They won’t spread rumors or gossip about you behind your back.

In the end, integrity comes down to this: trustworthy people value honesty, truthfulness , and fairness. They live by strong ethical values and moral codes of conduct. If they make a mistake, they own up to it, make amends, and work to do better next time. Their consistency and commitment to doing the right thing are what make them so dependable.

5. Responsible: They Take Responsibility

To be considered trustworthy, you must demonstrate responsibility. Responsible people:

• Follow through on commitments and promises. If you say you’re going to do something, do it. Don’t make excuses or blame others if you fail to deliver. Take ownership of your actions and make things right if needed.
• Accept consequences for their actions. Responsible people own their mistakes and failures instead of blaming external factors. They face the results of their decisions head-on and work to remedy situations rather than avoid or deny them.
• are accountable for their performance and results. They don’t make excuses or point fingers when things go wrong. Responsible individuals hold themselves accountable for their outcomes and work to continuously improve.
• Complete tasks and assignments on time. They don’t procrastinate or leave things until the last minute. Responsible people plan ahead, prioritize important work, and ensure obligations are fulfilled in a timely manner without needing reminders or micromanagement.
• Respond promptly. Responsible individuals reply to requests, questions, and issues in a timely fashion. They don’t leave people waiting or uninformed. Responding quickly builds trust and dependability.
• Go above and beyond when needed. Responsible people do what is required and sometimes a bit extra. They don’t cut corners or do the bare minimum. Going above expectations at times shows your dedication and willingness to put in effort when it really matters.

Overall, responsibility comes down to doing what you say you’ll do and being accountable for your actions and performance. Trustworthy individuals embody these traits, which is why responsibility is so important. People know they can count on responsible people.

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6. commitment: they value others..

To be truly trustworthy, a person must show commitment to the people and make promises in their life. Someone who is committed:

• follows through on their word. If they say they’ll do something, they make sure it gets done. They don’t make empty promises or leave things unfinished.
• is loyal to friends and family. They stand by the people who are important to them through good and bad times. They don’t abandon relationships when times get tough.
• finish what they start. Whether it’s a work project, hobby, or personal goal, a committed person sees things through to the end instead of quitting partway. They have the dedication and determination to achieve their objectives.
• stays dedicated to their values and priorities. Their commitment to things like honesty, ethics, and personal growth remains steadfast. They don’t compromise their principles for convenience or short-term gains.
• Takes their responsibilities seriously. Big or small, a committed person can be counted on to handle the duties and obligations in their life with care and consistency. They don’t make excuses or pass the buck.

In short, trustworthy individuals prove their commitment through their actions and follow-through. They understand that trust is hard to build but easy to break, so they do what they say they will do. Their loyalty, determination, and reliability demonstrate a commitment to integrity that makes them worthy of trust.

Signs Someone Doesn’t Value You: 13 Red Flags to Watch For

7. openness: they are open and genuine.

An open and transparent person is someone you know you can trust. They share information freely and honestly, without hiding anything or being secretive.

Open and trusting individuals communicate openly about all topics, even difficult ones. They share their thoughts, feelings, and any relevant information with others in a constructive way. If there are issues to discuss, they bring them up respectfully and work to resolve them.

Speak honestly but tactfully. Share the full truth, not partial information.

Willing to answer questions fully and truthfully. They don’t evade queries or provide vague responses.

Share both positive and negative feedback to facilitate open dialog and improvement.

Admits when they’re wrong and works to correct mistakes and misunderstandings.

Openness fosters understanding and brings people together. The more open and truthful we are with each other, the closer our relationships become.

Their honesty and integrity are unwavering. They don’t bend the truth or only tell part of the story to suit their needs. You know they will give you an accurate and truthful account of any situation. They have strong moral principles that guide their choices and decision-making.

8. Consistency

They behave consistently, and their reactions are predictable. Their moods and behaviors don’t frequently swing from one extreme to another. You know what to expect from them, regardless of the circumstances. They remain calm, composed, and stable.

A trustworthy person’s consistency, reliability, and honesty provide a steady foundation for building strong, long-lasting relationships. Their admirable qualities make them respected, valued, and sought-after.

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9. discretion: they don’t gossip or spread rumors..

To be truly trustworthy, discretion is key. A trustworthy person knows how to keep sensitive information private and confidential.

Gossiping or spreading rumors about others is a surefire way to damage trust and hurt relationships. Trustworthy individuals avoid participating in gossip and rumor-mongering. Instead, they keep private conversations private and confidential information confidential. If someone shares sensitive details with them, they do not spread that information to others or repeat it where it could get back to the person. They know that keeping one’s word and maintaining confidence are the foundations of trust.

Discretion also means they think before speaking and are careful with what they share on social media. They do not post or share anything that could damage relationships or trust if seen by the wrong people. Keeping information private and avoiding gossip are hallmarks of a trustworthy, discreet individual.

In summary, trustworthy people value privacy, confidentiality, and discretion. They keep their word, maintain confidence, avoid gossip and rumor-spreading, and are careful with what they share publicly. Their discretion and ability to keep sensitive matters private inspire confidence and build trust.

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10. competency: they know their stuff.

To be considered trustworthy, a person needs to demonstrate competence in key areas of their life and work. A trustworthy person develops expertise and skills through continuous learning and practice. They stay up-to-date with advancements in their field and expand their knowledge over time. People who are competent inspire confidence in others because they know what they’re doing.

You can count on a competent person to get the job done and meet their responsibilities. They do what they say they will do and avoid overpromising by only committing to things they can actually accomplish. Their reliability and follow-through built a solid reputation over time.

11. Sound judgment

Competent individuals show good judgment and decision-making skills. They consider all options and angles before determining the best course of action. Their choices are well-reasoned, practical, and lead to effective solutions and outcomes. Poor judgment, on the other hand, can call someone’s competence and trustworthiness into question.

Competency is a key signal that a person can be trusted to handle responsibilities, solve complex problems, and navigate challenges or crises effectively. Developing expertise, reliability, and judgment are lifelong pursuits that trustworthy individuals continually work to strengthen. Competence builds credibility, and credibility builds trust.

What Does It Mean to Judge Someone & Why we Judge Others

12. sincerity: builds authentic relationships.

To build authentic relationships, sincerity is key. People can spot insincerity from a mile away, and it undermines trust. Some signs of a sincere person include:

They say what they mean.

Sincere individuals are straightforward and honest. They don’t play games or hint at things. If there’s an issue, they address it respectfully and directly. You never have to guess where you stand with a sincere person.

Their words and actions align.

What sincere people say matches what they do . They walk the walk in addition to talking the talk. There are no mixed messages or empty promises from someone who is sincere. They follow through and can be counted on.

They listen to and validate others .

Sincerity involves empathy and caring about others and their experiences. Sincere people make eye contact, give you their full attention, and validate what you’re saying through follow-up questions and comments. They seek to understand rather than just reply.

They admit when they’re wrong.

Everyone makes mistakes, but sincere individuals own up to theirs. They apologize when needed and acknowledge if they were wrong about something. Their desire for honesty and authenticity outweighs their ego or image. Humility and sincerity go hand in hand.

They share openly about themselves too.

A sincere person is willing to be vulnerable by opening up about their own experiences, struggles, and perspectives. Conversation is a two-way street, not just an opportunity for them to gain information from you or make demands. They reciprocate by sharing and cultivating closeness.

Building trust always starts with sincerity. Look for these qualities in yourself and in the people you welcome into your life. Authentic relationships where you can be fully known are life’s greatest gift.

13. Fairness and Justice

Familiarity and justice are essential qualities that build trust in relationships and society. Trustworthy people treat others the way they themselves would like to be treated. They make impartial decisions and judgments, regardless of personal biases.

Impartiality

Trustworthy individuals evaluate ideas and situations objectively, based on facts and evidence rather than emotions or self-interest . Their decision-making isn’t swayed by personal prejudices or preferences. They give equal consideration to all sides and perspectives before determining what they believe is the fairest and most just course of action.

Equal Treatment

Upright people apply the same standards and rules to everyone, regardless of characteristics such as age, gender, race, religion, or socioeconomic status. They don’t show favoritism or make exceptions for certain groups. Trustworthy people advocate for equal rights and opportunities for all.

14. Reasonableness

Fair-minded people make prudent judgments that reasonable individuals would consider acceptable and justified. Their positions are grounded in practicality, and they avoid extremes. You can count on their determinations being fair, balanced, and well-thought out.

In summary, trustworthy individuals endeavor to be unbiased , equitable, and judicious. They work to overcome personal prejudices and make choices that are reasonable, fair-minded, and morally upright. By cultivating these qualities of fairness and justice in themselves, they build trust in their relationships and community.

15. Dependability

Dependability is one of the most important characteristics of a trustworthy person. When someone is dependable, you know you can count on them.

• They do what they say they will do. Dependable people follow through on commitments and don’t make empty promises. If they agree to help you with a task or project, you can expect them to deliver.
• They are consistent and reliable. You can count on a dependable person to respond, show up, and come through over and over again. Their behavior, mood, and attitude are steady and predictable.
• They don’t make excuses. Dependable people take responsibility for their actions and don’t blame external factors when they fail to meet expectations. They own up to mistakes and shortcomings rather than making excuses.
• They go the extra mile. Dependable individuals are willing to do more than the bare minimum to get the job done right. They care about the quality of their work and relationships, not just checking tasks off a list.
• They plan ahead. Dependable people anticipate obstacles and needs before they arise. They think ahead about what is required to fulfill commitments and set realistic expectations. Lack of planning is one of the biggest reasons people fail to follow through.

In short, dependability means you can have faith in someone and feel secure relying on them. Trustworthy people build dependability through consistency, accountability, and going above and beyond when it really counts. Their actions speak as loudly as their words.

So there you have it: the eight core characteristics that make a person truly trustworthy. Develop these qualities in yourself, and you’ll build meaningful relationships and become someone that others know they can count on. Work to embody integrity, honesty, reliability, competence, loyalty, confidentiality, transparency, and consistency.

Make the commitment each day to strengthen your character and be the kind of person who inspires trust in all of your interactions and relationships. When you have these traits, people will know your word means something and that you care about their wellbeing as much as your own. Become the kind of person you yourself would trust unconditionally—that is the mark of solid character and the key to being trustworthy.

• How to Be Tactful : Responding With Diplomacy and Grace By the Mind Tools Content Team
• The 4 Levels of Competence: Definition and Examples by INDEED
• Authenticity vs Sincerity: How Are These Words Connected?
• 10 Benefits Of Being A Transparent Person

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What to Do and How to Behave to Be a Trustworthy Person

Trust is the cornerstone of any successful relationship, whether it’s personal or professional. Being seen as trustworthy is not just about being honest; it involves a range of behaviors and attitudes that inspire confidence in others.

In this article, we will explore the secrets to building trust and provide practical instructions on how to cultivate this essential trait.

The Importance of Trustworthiness

Trustworthiness is a quality that sets individuals apart and earns them the respect and loyalty of those around them.

When people perceive you as trustworthy, they feel comfortable relying on you, confiding in you, and doing business with you.

Trust helps to establish strong connections and fosters a sense of security and stability in relationships.

Characteristics of a Trustworthy Person

Being trustworthy goes beyond simply telling the truth. It encompasses several key characteristics that contribute to building trust .

First and foremost, integrity is at the core of trustworthiness. Acting consistently with your values and principles, even when no one is watching, establishes a foundation of trust.

Honesty and transparency are also crucial, as they demonstrate a willingness to be open and authentic in your interactions.

Additionally, a trustworthy person is reliable and consistent. They follow through on their commitments and can be counted on to deliver what they promise.

This consistency builds confidence in others, making them feel secure in their relationship with you. Trustworthy people also show empathy and understanding, putting themselves in others’ shoes and showing genuine care and concern.

Building Trust Through Honesty and Transparency

Honesty is the bedrock of trust. Being truthful and transparent in your communication helps establish credibility and fosters an environment of openness.

When you make a mistake, own up to it and take responsibility .

Admitting your faults and learning from them shows humility and builds trust. Avoid exaggerations or stretching the truth, as it can undermine your credibility and erode trust.

Transparency is equally important in building trust. Be open about your intentions, motives, and actions.

Share information that is relevant to others, and be willing to answer questions honestly.

Being transparent helps dispel doubts and suspicions, allowing others to trust your motives and decisions.

Demonstrating Reliability and Consistency

Consistency is key to building trust. When you consistently follow through on your commitments and deliver what you promise, others can rely on you. This reliability builds confidence and demonstrates your trustworthiness.

Avoid making commitments lightly; only make promises you can keep. If circumstances change and you can’t fulfill a commitment, communicate promptly and honestly to manage expectations.

Consistency also applies to your behavior and actions. Be consistent in your values, principles, and ethical standards.

When others see that you act in alignment with your beliefs, they are more likely to trust you. Avoid being unpredictable or erratic, as it can create doubts and undermine trust.

Keeping Promises and Following Through

Keeping your promises is a fundamental aspect of trustworthiness. When you make a commitment, ensure that you fulfill it to the best of your ability. This means delivering on time, meeting expectations, and going the extra mile when necessary.

If you encounter obstacles or challenges, communicate proactively and find solutions to honor your promises.

Following through on your commitments shows that you value your word and respect the trust others have placed in you. It demonstrates your reliability, and reliability is vital in establishing trust.

When you consistently keep your promises, others will feel confident in relying on you and trusting your abilities. Developing self-discipline helps in keeping promises.

Showing Empathy and Understanding

Empathy is a powerful tool in building trust. When you show empathy, you demonstrate an understanding of others’ feelings and experiences. This creates a sense of connection and fosters trust.

Take the time to listen actively and attentively to others, seeking to understand their perspective without judgment or interruption.

Empathy also involves putting yourself in others’ shoes and considering their needs and concerns.

Show genuine care and concern for others’ well-being. Offer support and help when needed, and be there to celebrate their successes.

By showing empathy, you create a safe space for open communication and build trust based on mutual understanding and respect.

Respecting Others’ Boundaries and Privacy

Respect is a crucial element of trustworthiness. Respecting others’ boundaries and privacy shows that you value their autonomy and rights.

Avoid prying into others’ personal lives or sharing sensitive information without permission. Be mindful of personal space and avoid crossing boundaries that make others uncomfortable.

Respecting others’ boundaries also means honoring their opinions and perspectives, even if they differ from your own.

Encourage open dialogue and create an environment where diverse viewpoints are welcomed and respected. When others feel respected, they are more likely to trust you and be open to building a deeper connection.

Maintaining Confidentiality and Discretion

Confidentiality is another important aspect of trustworthiness. When someone confides in you, it is essential to keep their information private and confidential.

Respect the trust they have placed in you by not sharing their secrets or personal details with others unless explicitly allowed or required by law.

Discretion is closely related to confidentiality. It involves using good judgment when sharing information or making decisions .

Avoid gossiping or spreading rumors, as it can damage your credibility and erode trust. Be mindful of what you share and consider the potential impact on others before disclosing sensitive information.

Communicating Effectively and Actively Listening

Effective communication is a key skill in building trust. Clearly conveying your thoughts, ideas, and intentions helps others understand your perspective and builds confidence in your message.

Use concise and straightforward language, avoiding jargon or complex terminology that may confuse others. Be attentive to your tone and body language, as they can influence how your message is received.

Active listening is equally important in effective communication. When others feel heard and understood, trust is nurtured. Practice active listening by giving your full attention, maintaining eye contact, and responding with empathy and understanding.

Avoid interrupting or dismissing others’ opinions, as it can undermine trust and discourage open dialogue.

Building Trust Over Time and Maintaining It

Building trust is not a one-time event; it is a continuous process that requires time and effort. Be patient and consistent in your actions, as trust takes time to develop.

Show up consistently, keep your promises, and demonstrate integrity in your interactions. Over time, your trustworthiness will become evident, and others will rely on you.

Maintaining trust is equally important. Continuously evaluate your actions and behaviors to ensure they align with your values and the expectations of others.

Regularly communicate with those you have relationships with, seeking feedback and addressing any concerns or issues promptly.

By actively nurturing trust, you can strengthen your connections and solidify your reputation as a trustworthy person.

Trustworthiness Is a Valuable Trait

In conclusion, trustworthiness is a valuable trait that can significantly impact your personal and professional relationships. By embodying characteristics such as honesty, reliability, empathy, and respect, you can build trust and establish yourself as a dependable individual.

Remember that trust is built over time and requires consistent effort to maintain. By following the guidance and practical instructions outlined in this article, you can cultivate trust and become a revered and trustworthy person.

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9 Traits of Trustworthy People

Trust is valuable. It affects everything. Being a trustworthy person is one of those things which is necessary in order to go far in life and to achieve your greatest success.

Before starting my own company, I worked in the security and investigations industry for 20 years, and I learned that trust isn’t something you can gain quickly. It’s something earned over a period of time, after consistently being honest, always acting with integrity and never misleading those around you. It is how you act. It is who you are .

What makes a person trustworthy?

If you want to be a person other people trust , take a look at the decisions you make on a daily basis, and then consider these nine traits of trustworthy people. Do you have them? Can people trust you?

1. They are authentic.

People want to be around others that are real, those who are authentic and of good character . Authentic people are not trying to be above anyone else. They are likeable, humble and easy to talk to.

2. They are consistent.

Everyone has bad days. But people want to see consistent, positive behavior in the people they trust. Our actions and decisions make a difference in the eyes of others. 

3. A trustworthy person has integrity.

People want those around them to stand up for what is right in life, even when no one is watching.

4. They are compassionate.

Trustworthy people put themselves in other people’s shoes. They are always thinking of and feeling for others—it’s not all about them.

5. They are kind.

People build up trust when they look out for others. Trustworthy people are there when someone needs them the most—not just when everything is going OK. 

6. A trustworthy person is resourceful.

Trusted people are always learning and growing. They are constant students . They always know there is room to get better, and because of that, they know ways to help inspire and support others —and they give and share those resources.

7. They are connectors.

They look for ways to align like-minded people, and they connect people who have the knowledge or experience to help them get what they want.

8. They are humble.

Trustworthy people want to get others out there first, before themselves. They realize that the efforts of the team are what really make things happen, versus what they can accomplish individually. 

9. A trustworthy person is available.

They are there for people, available to offer support in whatever way they are needed. They go out of their way to make time for others when their help is requested. 

This article was published in November 2015 and has been updated. Photo by Ground Picture/Shutterstock

Cynthia Bazin

As the president of SmartChic , Cynthia Bazin provides keynote motivational speaking and premier mentoring. Cynthia has more than 20 years of high level leadership experience and has a master’s degree in counseling psychology. Cynthia’s expertise is to get people laser-focused on their personal and professional goals, providing them with kick-butt motivation and smart strategies so they can take action to achieve their goals and dreams.

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Importance of Trust Essay

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How to Become a Trustworthy Person

Last Updated: August 17, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was reviewed by Seth Hall . Seth T. Hall (ICF ACC, CLC, and MNLP) is a Certified Life Coach and Founder of Transformational Solutions, a Los Angeles-based life-coaching company that helps people achieve their toughest goals, find their own voice, and think outside the box. He has been a life coach for over 10 years, specializing in personal development, relationships, career and finance, and wellness. He has helped his clients break the negative cycles in their lives and replace them with a positive, proactive mindset. Seth believes that everyone has the potential to live a fulfilling and rewarding life, and works passionately to help them reach their full potential. With a deep understanding of how our minds work and the power of positive thinking, he encourages his clients to find their unique paths in life and find success on their own terms. He is a certified master practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming, a featured co-author for WikiHow, and co-author of "The Mountain Method”, “The Happy Tiger”, and “The V.I.S.I.O.N.S. Program”. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 238,557 times.

Being trustworthy is admirable and desirable. It's a trait other people look for in a person and it's confirmation that you're reliable, supportive and honest. If you'd like to become more trustworthy and have others come to rely on you, there are some great ways to go about doing this.

Being a positive force

• Actions prove far more than words. Good character is forged in good, caring and thoughtful actions.

• Don't break your promise. If you have problems keeping it, talk to the person about the circumstances but with a view to fulfilling what you can of the promise. Don't simply fail to do it or slink away if it's not doable.

• Some honesty can be hard but is still essential. For example: Your least favorite coworker has spinach stuck in his teeth after a work function. Do you tell him? Of course you do. He deserves to know that. Your arch enemy has her skirt tucked into her knickers after visiting the bathroom. Do you tell her? Of course you do. She deserves to know that. You may have qualms because you initially think it's funny, payback or just desserts but realize that by being honest here, you gain respect from people who would otherwise be thorns in your side. They owe you one and know you are someone solid. Even in hard situations always tell the truth.

• Quality over quantity applies to friendships as much as anything else in life. While being friendly to all is a great trait, having quality friends who are close to you will often mean the group is much smaller.

Ridding yourself of negative behaviors

• The truth always comes out, one way or another. Remind yourself of this.
• Mark Twain once said: "If you tell the truth you don't have to remember anything". This makes for a simpler, happier and more fulfilling life.

• Move away from the gossip clan. Gossiping clans make sure you take turns to dish out garbage about those not in the gossip clan. Once it's your turn, you'd probably hurt someone's feelings while you tell them everything. Remember that the truth will always find a way out, so don't even start with the nasties.
• If all else fails, just think about how that person you are talking about would feel and just tell your friends you've got nothing.

Staying trustworthy

Expert Q&A

• Become trustworthy around everyone, not just your nearest and dearest. Being trusted is even more of a compliment than being loved. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
• Loyalty to those not present proves your loyalty to those who are present. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 1
• Hanging out with good role model friends inspires you to be a good human. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0

• Trust takes years to build but mere seconds to destroy. Always think carefully before acting in haste. Thanks Helpful 96 Not Helpful 7
• Half truths are whole lies. Omissions are often lies too. Thanks Helpful 78 Not Helpful 6
• Don't let your friends tell you who you want to be. Such friends will get you back to gossiping in no time. Quietly tell them off and move on. And realize that in some cases, if friends fall behind, your role model behavior will cause them to catch up. Thanks Helpful 56 Not Helpful 9

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Michelle Joy, MA, MFT. Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. Expert Interview. 26 June 2020.
• ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/build-trust/
• ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/compassion/definition
• ↑ https://www.apa.org/education-career/ce/ccw0073
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/human-kind/202103/rumor-has-it-why-people-gossip-and-how-you-can-cope
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/happiness-in-world/201402/why-be-honest

About This Article

Being a trustworthy person will make you a better friend, co-worker, and partner. Always keep the promises you make so people will know they can rely on you. If life gets in the way and you can’t maintain a commitment, explain your situation so the person understands why you can’t do it. Remember to tell the truth at all times, which will make you more genuine. When people tell you secrets, keep them to yourself. Everyone makes mistakes sometimes, but if you mess up, apologize to the person and try to do better next time. If you have good intentions, they should forgive you and see that you’re trustworthy. For more tips, including how to find trustworthy friends, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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The essential importance of trust: how to build it or restore it.

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“To earn trust, money and power aren’t enough; you have to show some concern for others. You can’t buy trust in the supermarket." – His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama Photographer: Adam Berry/Bloomberg News

There are just a few elemental forces that hold our world together. The one that’s the glue of society is called trust. Its presence cements relationships by allowing people to live and work together, feel safe and belong to a group. Trust in a leader allows organizations and communities to flourish, while the absence of trust can cause fragmentation, conflict and even war. That’s why we need to trust our leaders, our family members, our friends and our co-workers, albeit in different ways.

Trust is hard to define, but we do know when it’s lost. When that happens, we withdraw our energy and level of engagement. We go on an internal strike, not wanting to be sympathetic to the person who we feel has hurt us or treated us wrongly. We may not show it outwardly, but we are less likely to tell the formerly trusted person that we are upset, to share what is important to us or to follow through on commitments. As a result, we pull back from that person and no longer feel part of their world. This loss of trust can be obvious or somewhat hidden — especially if we pretend to be present but inwardly disengage. And those who have done something to lose our trust may not even know it.

On the positive side, trust makes people feel eager to be part of a relationship or group, with a shared purpose and a willingness to depend on each other. When trust is intact, we will willingly contribute what is needed, not just by offering our presence, but also by sharing our dedication, talent, energy and honest thoughts on how the relationship or group is working.

One dictionary definition of trust is “feeling safe when vulnerable.” When we depend on a leader, family member or friend, we can feel vulnerable, and we need trust to manage the anxiety of this feeling. When trust is present, things go well; but when trust is lost, the relationship is at risk.

If the level of trust is low in a relationship or organization, people limit their involvement and what they are willing to do or share. They might think to themselves, “This is all you deserve,” or, “This is as all I am willing to give.” In contrast, when the trust level is high, people reward it by giving more. But, more often than not, people feel that their distrust is not safe to share. So a leader or loved one may be slow to discover that they have lost a person’s trust.

The hiddenness and personal nature of trust can be a problem for relationships, teams or organizations. How can you fix something that is not expressed or shared? How do you even know that trust is lost? Paradoxically, there must be at least a little trust in order to discuss its lack and make attempts to rebuild it, while if the loss of trust remains unaddressed, the relationship will grow more and more distant.

Trust is often related to leadership and power, but it is not a given. To be effective, a leader must earn the trust of his or her constituents to ensure their participation and allegiance. Indeed, any successful relationship — whether it’s leader to follower, consultant or coach to client or the relationship between spouses, siblings and friends — relies on a level of trust that must be earned. Yet even trust that is earned can be quickly lost and cannot be quickly regained. If members of a team or relationship lose trust in each other, it takes a great deal of work to restore it. People are not quick to reinvest in a relationship where trust has been broken. They generally move on.

Six Building Blocks of Trust

Since trust is so important in both working and personal relationships, how can we monitor it, build upon it and heal it when it becomes frayed? It is useful to view trust as a natural response to certain qualities in a person, group or organization, and the absence of these qualities will diminish the level of trust. These qualities are:

• Reliability and Dependability: A person or group that is true to their word and fulfills their commitments encourages trust.
• Transparency: People are anxious about unknowns and tend to assume the worst when they’re not informed about a new development. When management meets in secret or does not share important information, team members can easily become distrustful. On the other hand, when people share their thoughts, feelings and considerations, or when an organization, usually through its leader, tells its members what is going on, everyone knows where they stand and trust can flourish.
• Competency: This is another element that is central to building trust. If you think a person, leader or organization is not capable of doing what they are supposed to do, you cannot trust them. Therefore, even when a person has a good heart or good intentions and we like them personally, they cannot win our trust if they’re not capable of doing what they promise.
• Sincerity, Authenticity and Congruency: People can often sense when someone says something that is not aligned with what they are feeling inside. When a leader is insincere or inauthentic, people don’t believe what he or she is saying. A leader who says one thing but who acts differently is not congruent. For example, it is hard to believe someone who says they want to listen but does not give you a chance to speak, or someone who says she is concerned about people yet seems to have a plan to lay people off. People may think they can hide their true feelings or contradictions, but others can quickly detect a lack of sincerity or congruency. That’s when trust is eroded.
• Fairness: Some people act as if the needs and desires of others are not important, or they don’t truly listen to or respect both sides. Trust cannot grow in a relationship where it’s all about one person or in a workplace where all the energy is focused on the company or leader.
• Openness and Vulnerability : If a person never says they are wrong and apologizes or acknowledges their mistakes, other people do not feel comfortable disagreeing with them or sharing their own thoughts. A leader who is “never wrong” never gets the truth from others. Yet a timely apology or admission of being wrong is a powerful weapon to build or rebuild trust.

All of these qualities contribute to the degree of trust people have for each other. If you are feeling a shift of trust in a relationship, it is helpful to assess the presence or absence of each of these six qualities. This allows you to discover what is lacking in the relationship and find ways to restore trust. To build or rebuild trust, a leader must open the conversation about the degree to which each of the six qualities are present and be open to hearing what others feel, observe and need. Of course, the leader will need some trust in the others in order to begin this process.

Similarly, it takes courage in a family or personal relationship to bring up loss of trust and to request that another person modify their behavior. This may lead to learning that you need to look at your own behavior too. Trust is a two-way street, built by the behavior of each person in the relationship.

Restoring Trust That’s Been Lost or Broken

Trust is often lost when we feel hurt by another’s action and believe that this action (or inaction) was intentional. But by sharing our feelings with the person who hurt us, we might begin to see things differently and realize that their intention was not what we imagined. This may repair the breach quickly as misunderstandings are unraveled and communication deepens. It may be difficult to initiate such a conversation; however, given the tendency to withdraw when we feel hurt. Still, a person who is able to do this will find that they are less frequently hurt.

In the same way, if we feel that we have done something to lose the trust of another, we can seek the other out and inquire about what has happened. True, this can feel awkward and risky — especially if one is a leader, parent or person of authority — and this is not something that comes naturally. But this willingness to be vulnerable can ultimately lead to greater trust because the other person feels that their own vulnerability and needs are being respected.

The dynamics of trust are delicate in important relationships, and the loss of trust can be costly — not only psychologically, but also financially and in terms or work and livelihood. What’s helpful to remember is that trust is an ongoing exchange between people and is not static. Trust can be earned. It can be lost. And it can be regained.

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