As you think about that question, several people may run through your mind. Some, as you think about them, may be scratched off of your list, while others are rock solid. Unfortunately, individuals sit in my office almost daily, telling me of someone whom they deeply trusted only to be betrayed at some point. Last week one client shared with me the fact that they trusted their dog more than their own family members.
Trust is important to our welfare. A recent study that was based upon surveys from more than 25,000 Americans revealed that people who are able to trust, live nearly a year longer than those who don’t. Closely connected to that was the report that those who lived among predominately distrusters had a higher risk of dying than those who were surrounded by a community of trusters.
So, what is the take-a-way for you and me? I believe there are two important principles that we can benefit from. First, we need to honestly ask ourselves – am I distrustful because deep down I know that I am not trustworthy and therefore I don’t believe anyone else is either? If that is the case, we need to do an internal audit and make changes within ourselves to become the kind of people others can trust. Secondly, we need to look at who the influences are in our lives. Who is our social support? Who do I allow to speak into my life? I want to surround myself with those who are trustworthy.
So, I encourage you today to ask yourself – “Who do I trust?” and draw closer to them.