How do I build trust in a new friendship?

Imagine you just made a new friend. You may laugh at the same jokes...but do you trust them enough to share your secrets or count on them when it matters? That’s where trust comes in.

Trust is the confidence that someone will be honest, reliable, and supportive. It’s the glue that holds friendships together and allows you to be yourself without fear of judgment.

Trust isn’t built overnight, but without it, friendships often fizzle out fast. The good news? You can take simple steps to grow trust from the very start.

Foundation for Connection

Trust is the starting point of every strong friendship. Without it, conversations and interactions stay on the surface. With trust, both people feel safe enough to open up, which creates a deeper, more meaningful bond over time.

Safe Space for Vulnerability

A trustworthy friend gives you the confidence to share your real thoughts, fears, and dreams. You don’t have to pretend or hide parts of yourself. This honesty makes the friendship feel genuine and supportive.

Reliability and Support

Trust means you can depend on your friend, whether it’s showing up for a coffee date or standing by you during a tough time. Knowing you can count on each other makes the relationship feel steady and strong.

Reduced Conflict

When trust is present, you’re more likely to give your friend the benefit of the doubt. Instead of jumping to conclusions or getting upset, you assume positive intentions. This keeps small misunderstandings from turning into bigger arguments.

Resilience

Life gets messy as people move, get busy, or face personal challenges. Trust acts like glue that holds the friendship together through these ups and downs, helping it survive and grow even when things aren’t easy.

Without trust, a friendship often stays shallow and struggles to last.

1. Be Trustworthy and Reliable

• Show up on time and keep your promises.

• Be consistent in your actions so your friend knows they can rely on you.

• Admitting mistakes honestly shows authenticity.

2. Practice Open Communication

• Listen actively and give your full attention.

• Be open and transparent with your own thoughts and feelings.

• Respect boundaries and privacy.

• Express gratitude for their presence in your life.

3. Be Supportive and Kind

• Be there during both the highs and lows.

• Show small acts of kindness build big trust over time.

• Be encouraging and uplifting instead of critical.

4. Be Vulnerable

• Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. It creates a safe, trusting space.

• Share your feelings, and encourage your friend to do the same.

• Be yourself, as authenticity builds deeper bonds.