An element that is critical in all relationships, whether it’s personal or professional, is trust. Trust takes time to develop, yet quickly and in an instant destroyed. The time to build versus destroy is disproportionate.
In organizations, there is inevitably conflict. For an organization to thrive, conflict must exist to push the boundaries of our biased thinking. Yet, this conflict is often confused with trust, which is not the same. Trust results from the alignment in beliefs and, even more so, values. From this comes support, collaboration, and mutual consent.
When the trust is broken through flippant words or unthoughtful actions, what transpires next is fundamental to maintaining a trusting relationship. The ability of the transgressor to acknowledge their efforts and seek redemption is essential in maintaining trust. The question is, who is the transgressor? Rarely is it obvious, and in many cases, all parties play a role in breaking trust. Who came first and who was more egregious is of little relevance. Your perspective is not someone else’s.
When caught early and apologies are expressed with sincerity, not only is the trust in the relationship maintained, but there is a strengthening of the bond, for with our vulnerability and admitting our mistake, we reflect an ability to be open and honest with one another.
The ability to forgive depends on timing and sincerity. The longer we procrastinate the apology, the harder it becomes to express it and the more difficult it is to be open to receiving and accepting the apology. Without sincerity, there is no apology: but only hollow words.
Sorry is a powerful word and one that reflects our character and values.
