Trust in relationships is essential. At the Jessica Yaffa Coaching Institute, we often work with clients on how to build trust or manage trust issues in new relationships and old ones. Building trust in relationships is something that requires ongoing, intentional effort and action from both parties, whether in a friendship, intimate relationship, business relationship, or family relationship. We asked our relationship experts to share their top advice and guidance on building trust in relationships, navigating trust issues in new relationships, and more.
Communication is Key
As we so often mention in blogs, workshops, and coaching sessions, communication is key. It’s no surprise that open, honest, and healthy communication is also at the heart of building trust in relationships and navigating trust issues in new relationships. Practicing vulnerability by sharing your thoughts and feelings, not just the positive ones, allows trust to grow. We know that it can be challenging to be open and honest with your partner, especially if you don’t feel you have the tools to start and navigate difficult conversations that arise. It’s also important to practice active listening when your partner is sharing. Avoid distractions (put the phone down) and show your partner that you care about what they’re saying. You can do this through your body language (leaning in and making eye contact) and by asking thoughtful questions and validating their feelings when appropriate. See our blog post on communication for more advice on how you can communicate better to build trust in relationships.
Set and Respect Boundaries
Another one of our favorite topics at the Jessica Yaffa Coaching Institute is boundary setting. Assessing and understanding your boundaries is a great place to start when you’re looking to better your relationships. Respecting your own boundaries and the boundaries of your partner shows that you can be trusted to act in a way that honors their needs and wants. Allowing your partner the opportunity to respect your boundaries and vice versa is a great way to build trust in relationships.
Practice Accountability
If you’re struggling with building trust in relationships, looking inward is a great place to start. When we examine ourselves in the context of the relationships around us, we can better understand how our behavior impacts our connection with others. Embrace opportunities to take accountability in your relationships when they arise. This could look like acknowledging that you made a mistake, recognizing areas in which you could improve, and committing to making positive changes. When your partner, friend, family member, or coworker sees that you’re not afraid to take accountability for your mistakes, and apologize sincerely, trust grows.
Seek Support
We know that building trust in relationships takes time and effort, and our advice above is a great place to start. If you’re seeking additional support in building trust or reestablishing trust, we’re here for you. Our coaches are experts in a variety of relationship topics and we work to match you with a coach that aligns with your needs and makes you feel comfortable and supported. Check out our coaching page to learn more about our process and start your journey to cultivating trust in relationships today!
