This quote about gratitude and trust really caught my attention. The imagery in the words were beautiful and when I found this photo to go with it the combined effect was breath-taking. The meaning behind the words are so rich and I can’t wait to explore them.
Trust is Built with Thanks
Gratitude goes a long way. Not only does it do something for the recipient of the thanks in knowing they are appreciated, but there is also something very special in being the one who gives the thanks. The joy I feel when I give thanks to others is undeniable. Gratitude is like an olive branch, when given it helps to establish trust.
Relationships are Built on Trust
Once a foundation of trust is established, relationships can begin to develop. This is true at both the personal and professional level. Do you want a friend you don’t trust? Do you want to partner with a company that has given you no reason to trust them? The level of established trust directly correlates to the depth of the friendship. If you are looking to partner with another entrepreneur on a joint effort, you need to take the time to establish a relationship built on trust before you can expect anything from them.
Trust Takes Time
There is nothing wrong with trying to build new relationships, but they take time. The imagery that Voskamp uses is perfect in describing how this is done. It literally takes one act at a time. It begins with establishing dialogue, and this can take a while. Once dialogue is established you can then move on to opportunities that require minimal trust. Each action slowly adds a plank to that bridge. The more you do with another person the more opportunities you have to reveal your integrity. Unless you make a unique connection with another person, many relationships in the online world can take a year or two to establish. Lack of personal presence is the primary reason, but with time trust can be established so that all of the efforts you put into the yesterdays give you the opportunity for many tomorrows.
Read the entire Motivation Monday series here.
