7 Ways to Build Trust in a Relationship

Do you know these 7 concrete ways to build trust in a relationship? Often, what really makes a relationship work are not the things we think of first. For example, spicing things up is sometimes not the right way to go to strengthen a relationship. Predictability is often more important than variety. Using the seven methods outlined here you will definitely see improvements in the strength and quality of your relationship.

One of the first things to do has been mentioned already and that is to be predictable. You would be forgiven for thinking this goes against the common belief that a romance needs sitrring up to keep things interesting. You can still have nice little surprises like going to a new restaurant or a bunch of flowers but the key thing is to be consistent and steady to keep things ticking along. Consider that trust in a relationship is built on being reliable day in and day out.

Next, you need to make sure that your words always match the message. This means that your partner needs to hear the words which match your body language. For example, if you say you are happy but are frowning, your partner will be able to see through your deception. Your parter needs to be able to trust what you are saying. Always matching the message with the words will build a strong foundation of trust in a relationship.

A belief in your partner’s competency is the next thing you need to work on. Lacking this belief will create strong resistance to developing trust in the relationship. What you say will never be destructive if it’s lovingly communicated. When you do not believe that your partner is competent at some things (or indeed, anything), you violate the trust in a relationship.  
Tell your partner everything. Nothing destroys the trust in a relationship quicker than a secret that has been found out. Honesty and openness is the key. If you assume that everything will eventually be found out you will find it harder to keep secrets. Secrets can be very emotionally damaging on the person keeping them and require enormous energy. That is energy that could be going into building the relationship.

The fifth thing to master is the ability to always let your partner know what your needs are. Don’ t make him or her guess what you need. Let them know. It is okay to be self-centered as long as you are not selfish. If you don’t like doing this you may find yourself going in the opposite direction and smothering your partner.

Now you need to learn how to say no. When your partner voices his or her needs, that is a good thing. But you don’t need to say yes to everything. Nobody gets respect by saying yes to everything. It may seem contrary but this will actually build more trust in the relationship.
Finally, you must always strive to achieve growth. Planting a tree begins by digging in the dirt. Digging in the dirt of our relationships can sometimes cause pain. But, through that pain, we prepare the soil for future growth. Turmoil, crisis and questions are nothing to be afraid of. These all become the fertilizer for future growth and change for the good. Embrace what is difficult.

When you decide to establish trust in a relationship you can’t hep but feel a little pain. But, as you work through this pain, you will not only become stronger as an individual, you will also strengthen your coupledom.