Building Trust in Your Family

Nothing is more important than a healthy and happy family life. You may be familiar with the expression, "It all starts at home." This is an extremely accurate phrase that applies to many different facets of people’s personal, scholastic and business lives. A properly functioning family can provide the necessary foundation for your success both within the home and out in the world.

In modern times, many families are split, or divided up and they become a mix and match game of relatives. Do not let this dissuade you from having the close knit family you deserve! Nontraditional families are still families and they should be treated as such. Simply follow these helpful tips to build more trust in your own unique family situation.

One of the most integral parts of building trust in any relationship is accountability. This means that you must stick to your word and deliver on your promises. Taking responsibility for your own actions is a vital step in this process. For instance, if you promised a family member some ice cream as a treat, you must deliver the goods! If you fail to follow through on your vow (as simple as it may be), an essential element of a functional family is lost.

To put it simply, trust is earned. If you cannot to commit to something, make this clear from the beginning and give reasons as to why. If you make a commitment and, at the last minute you absolutely cannot go through with it, let your family member know as soon as possible and try to make other similar plans at your next earliest convenience.

On the other hand, if you have been the one who has been “ditched” or “forgotten” by a family member, remember that forgiveness is also a big part of trust. Keep in mind that last minute problems arise in life and that even your closest family members are subject to making mistakes.

If you follow these suggestions and make them into habits, you will suddenly find that family interactions have become a breeze. You will no longer have to wonder if you are being given false promises or if you have been granted forgiveness for your planning shortcomings.

Sometimes people find it easy to maintain a high level of trust in their romantic relationships and yet they fail to do the same within their own family. Do not forget that while your romantic relationships are very important, your family is there to stay. Friends and lovers come and go. Your family can be your rock in hard times and your partners in laughter during the good times.

Less distractions and increased focus and self-confidence are just a few of the benefits that a stable family can deliver. Imagine being able to concentrate completely on the task at hand, whether it be school work, a late afternoon meeting or while exercising. Or, picture feeling secure in yourself and your abilities the next time you are facing a major challenge. Having the support structure of your family can easily make all of this attainable!