Invest in the Currency of Trust
Endowed with a value that empowers with a firm belief in the reliability, truth, or ability of someone, trust is one of the most potent media of exchange in times of need.
Have you ever wondered why some people get help while some others struggle to get assistance? I have found that trust plays a significant role in the support we receive. It is like a currency—when you have it in sufficient quantity, you can readily exchange it for what you need.
So many people find help and do so continually, most often not, because of trust. Conversely, many that struggle to get help probably have run out of the currency of trust.
Many years ago, as a young boy, I had an experience that gave me a clear understanding of trust. There was a woman across the road to us that operates a small grocery shop. I usually visit the store to buy groceries and have done so for many years. One day I went to buy a loaf of bread as usual, but the regular size was not available, so she suggested that I take the next size up, which meant a price increase. As I did not plan for that, the money I had was not enough, so I explained that I would not mind following her advice, but I do not have enough money.
I decided to go home and return with the extra funds to make up for the complete payment before I took the loaf of bread away. I explained my decision, but the response I got blew my mind. The woman responded, ‘No, do not worry about the money. You can take the bread now and bring the money whenever you are coming next.’ I was quiet and thought about the situation carefully, wondering what could have been the reason behind such action.
I declined that offer—I went home to take the money to pay her before I took the loaf of bread, but the lessons stayed with me. She said these words; ‘I know you, I trust you, I am sure you will bring the money.’
I got two lessons, among others which are as follows: Firstly, I was not doing anything deliberately to impress her, but she observed for a period to form an impression of me based on how I behaved to her and probably others. Secondly, I discovered if I were to be in actual need, I have some ‘funds’ in the bank of trust that could help me.
Many years after, I still found it to be true. I have utility contracts, and they write me to offer upgrades or other services because ‘you are a trusted customer’. Banks write to me stating that they are happy to lend me money, with different offers and attractive rates. I found it is because of trust evident in our relationship for many years. Although I decline in most cases, it only shows that if I actually need help, I can get one because trust has made it possible. Instead of using it up, I keep adding to it, so more people and organisations are willing to help me. It is a function of trust.
Many people do not realise the value of trust. They cheat other people to get quick gain or defraud organisations that provide them goods or services. They refuse to pay their bills or dues—they run away from their creditors. They renege on agreements and refuse to honour their contracts. It may be little or big—it may be between you and a friend or perhaps an organisation. You may never know how it will affect you in future. It is worth investing in the currency of trust.
Many complicate their problems with dishonesty. They deceive, frustrating people that helped them, but they never realise that they have shut so many doors against themselves in the future. When you borrow money from a friend, and you refuse to repay—ignoring the person, you may have won once by cheating him—but you may have lost ninety-nine times.
You may have enjoyed the services of a company in the past, but you failed to pay for it after satisfactory completion. You are losing your chances for help and reducing their willingness to offer such to those in need. There are times when some people cannot genuinely keep the agreement for circumstances beyond their control. It is better to keep them informed as you may get more options than to run away, deceive or ignore.
There are so many organisations or businesses that have benefited from relationships of trust for growth and development. They approach the bank for small capital for a business, and they keep to the terms and return the funds as agreed. They later ask the bank to get more funds—the bank gives more because of trust in previous dealings. Many have weathered difficult season because of the confidence built in their relationships in good times. A history of consistency in this currency may help you in the time of need.
Many people could get help from friends, colleagues or relatives, but they ruined such opportunities because of their past dealings. It probably was full of inconsistencies, deceit, dishonesty, failed promises, or contempt.
Many people are willing to sacrifice for those that are trustworthy. Some became weary because of some of the unpleasant attitudes and experiences. It takes a lot to screen or differentiate between the fake and the genuine in many cases. Many organisations invest so much to check for trust and credibility. It is the reason for credits checks, background checks, security checks, history checks, and references.
Some people have lost great opportunities and positions because of some inconsistencies in their history. A dishonest gain—no matter how much money is involved; is not worth it in the long run. Invest in the currency of trust before you have a need, you may never need to use it, but it is worth the investment. It is wise to keep a good history—it will help you in need. Pay your dues, and do not defraud other people. The lifestyle may actually help you stay out of problems, but it also gives you a sense that people are willing to help you in times of need.
What is your situation today? Do you have funds of trust or lack them? You can turn over a new leaf and begin a change for the better if the latter is the case. If yours is the former, you could explore opportunities available through your relationships if you need help. If you do not need it, continue to add value by earning the currency of trust.
To be continued next week, don’t miss it.
Thank you for investing time to read this post. I hope you have found it valuable. I will be glad to hear from you. Please leave a comment below and share.
[pvcp_1]
