Distrust can damage any relationship, whether it’s with a friend, a family member or a colleague. Learn how to recognize the signs of distrust and how to overcome it with honesty, empathy and communication.
We know what trust is and the literal meaning of it but there are some signs all of us display when we start to lose trust in relationships.
If you have ever felt like you can’t trust anyone, or if you constantly doubt the intentions and actions of others, or if you struggle to open up and share your feelings with the people in your life; then it is an early indication that you might be suffering from distrust.
But, what exactly is distrust and how do we know its underlying traits?
Distrust is basically a lack of confidence or faith in someone or something. And it can stem from various factors such as past experiences, personality traits or unrealistic expectations on someone or from someone.
While there its normally said that 'Trust is hard to find these days', Distrust can also have its own set of negative consequences for any relationship.
Not having trust on someone can make you feel insecure, anxious and even isolated. It can lead to conflicts, misunderstandings and internal resentment too. And at the same time, it can prevent you from forming meaningful connections and enjoying your life!
But don’t worry! Distrust is not a permanent behavioral condition and it is something one can easily overcome with some effort and patience.
Here are some steps you can take to overcome distrust in any relationship:
Step 1: Identify the source of your distrust
The first step to overcoming distrust is to understand where it actually comes from. Ask yourself - What made you lose trust in someone or something? Was it a specific event or a pattern of behavior? How did it affect you emotionally and mentally? How does it affect your current relationships?
Step 2: Communicate your feelings and needs
The second step to overcoming distrust is to express your feelings and needs to the person or people you distrust. Its important to be honest and respectful which many of us fail to do. Equally important is to not be afraid to be vulnerable. Tell them how their actions or words made you feel and what you need from them to rebuild trust. While you do so, make an effort to listen to their perspective and try to understand their point of view. (Much can be simplified if we make an attempt to understand other person's perspective and where they are coming from!)
Step 3: Set boundaries and expectations
The third step to overcoming distrust is to establish clear boundaries and expectations for your relationship. Boundaries are the limits you set for yourself and others on what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. And expectations are the standards you have for yourself and others on how the relationship should function. These two, boundaries and expectations, therefore help you create a safe and respectful environment for your relationship.
Step 4: Give and receive feedback
The fourth step to overcoming distrust is to give and receive feedback on your relationship. Feedback is the information you share with someone or receive from someone on how they are doing or how you are doing in the relationship. Feedback helps you monitor your progress and identify areas for improvement. Give feedback that is specific, constructive, and timely. Receive feedback that is honest, helpful, and respectful.
Step 5: Practice forgiveness and gratitude
The fifth step to overcoming distrust is to practice forgiveness and gratitude for yourself and others. This is probably the most important steps of all which most of us fail to do in our lives. Forgiveness is the act of letting go of anger, resentment or blame towards someone who has hurt you or betrayed you. Together with, Gratitude, which is the act of appreciating what you have and what others do for you. Both, forgiveness and gratitude help you heal from the past and make you focus on the present.
In summary, Distrust can be a challenging obstacle to overcome, but it is not impossible.
If you are someone who do not trust others easily, try at least one of these steps consistently for a few days and see the difference in your approach towards world at large, see how you are able to trust again and improve your relationships with others. You will be amazed! :)
Do you have any other tips on how to overcome distrust in any relationship? Share them in the comments below!
And don’t forget to share this post with your friends who might benefit from it. Give them a chance to look at this world with a lot more beauty and compassion!
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