KMMC works to determine the exact issue or cause and provide guidance and alternatives to 1) help mitigate the problem, and 2) implement sustainable solutions that support teams, leadership, and customers. Here is an example to understand how we have helped turn difficult experiences into productive interpersonal outcomes.
Trust. What an elusive yet necessary quality needed for a productive existence. Imagine for a moment how life might differ if people were able to function from a place of trust. Just think of how it would feel to know that every interaction could be trusted. Are you able to accept people, things or situations that may differ from what you currently know or believe? Consider how would it look or feel to exist in an environment or society where trust is the norm. Is this idea conceivable to you, or is it far-fetched and unrealistic?
Our ability to trust is predicated on experience, mental models and beliefs. When trust is readily given and received, chances are these patterns will typically continue. On the other hand, when trust is violated, suspicion creeps in and progress is stifled. Regaining trust once it's gone requires sincere intention, time to heal, forgiveness and a willingness to work toward a harmonious end for all concerned. And despite our best efforts, there are times when trust never returns. Disappointment, hurt, anger or any number of negative emotions connected with the lack of trust has a way of extending beyond those directly involved, wreaking havoc and causing harm. If the outcome of distrust is so destructive, wouldn’t it be beneficial to find ways to foster trust? Try two things: 1) understand what trust is and, 2) become aware of what you believe.
Your capacity to trust, particularly when it has been questioned, is worth investigating. Here is a list that describes trust. Take a look to see how many points with which you identify and practice. Consider that trust is:
Letting others know your thoughts, feelings and reactions and having the confidence that they will respect and not take advantage of you, nor spread what they hear indiscriminately.
Being confident enough to reach out for support when needed and believing others will respond.
Assuming that others will not intentionally hurt or abuse you should you make an error or a mistake.
Feeling confident enough to share your secrets and knowing they are safe.
Knowing that things are fine when there are disagreements and being assured that nothing can disrupt the bond between you and another.
Letting others into your life so that you and they can create a relationship built on an understanding of mutual respect, care, and concern.
Opening yourself up to letting others in on your background, problems, concerns, and mistakes with the assurance that you will not be judged or ostracized.
Placing yourself in the vulnerable position of relying on others to treat you in a fair, open, and honest way.
Do you see yourself in any of these points? If you agree with most or some part of the descriptions, you are tapping into trust. If your beliefs, behaviors and feelings are not in agreement on most of the points, some level of distrust exists. Rather than judge yourself, recall examples when you lost trust in something or someone; reflect on what provoked negative emotions. This may help you begin to identify reasons why trust is lacking. It may be an uncomfortable thing to do, but it's worth the effort. Give trust a try!
