

{"id":16910,"date":"2017-08-28T11:29:39","date_gmt":"2017-08-28T11:29:39","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/?p=16910"},"modified":"2025-03-27T05:25:15","modified_gmt":"2025-03-27T05:25:15","slug":"7-important-tips-to-build-trust-in-relationships","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/7-important-tips-to-build-trust-in-relationships\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Build Trust in a Relationship: 15 Strong Ways"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-27391\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/A-great-dialogue-does-wonders-for-increasing-your-loving-feelings-towards-each-other.jpg\" alt=\"A long-term relationship takes a lot of effort\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust is the glue of life. It&rsquo;s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It&rsquo;s the foundational principle that holds all relationships.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Said American educator and author Stephen Covey, and it couldn&rsquo;t be more true.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>In relationships, trust is the invisible thread that strengthens the bond between two people, keeping them connected even when times get tough.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But how do you build trust in a relationship, especially when life throws challenges your way?&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have you ever caught yourself questioning whether you or your partner are truly transparent with one another? Do you wonder if there&rsquo;s a way to nurture that trust even more?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Building trust in a relationship doesn&rsquo;t happen overnight&mdash;it takes consistent effort, open communication, and understanding.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p>Couples who practice trust-building activities are more likely to maintain a stable and happy relationship. Also, according to a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/259250586_Relationship_Effort_Satisfaction_and_Stability_Differences_Across_Union_Type\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">relationship evaluation survey<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, putting in effort was found to be closely linked with higher levels of relationship satisfaction and long-term stability.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, whether you&rsquo;re looking to strengthen an already solid bond or you&rsquo;re learning how to build trust in a relationship after a tough situation, this article offers 15 powerful ways to guide you through the process.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What-is-trust-in-a-relationship\"><\/span><b>What is trust in a relationship?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/4Hj5vhn_wj4?si=Ku4pgFIirSfph6fY\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">&#65279;<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p><b>Trust is very much the foundation of every relationship from which a strong connection can be built. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without trust between couples, relationships won&rsquo;t grow and progress to a deeper level.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Trust in a relationship is all about feeling secure with your partner. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It means knowing they&rsquo;ve got your back, will keep their word, and are transparent with you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust leads to better understanding and mutual respect.<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It makes the relationship stronger<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where both people can come together without being afraid of judgment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Trust and relationship cannot exist in isolation, and if there is a violation of trust<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the relationship is bound to go kaput.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But how to build trust in a relationship? Or how can you build trust in a relationship? It takes time, effort, and consistency. Keep reading the sections below!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why-is-trust-important-in-a-relationship\"><\/span><b>Why is trust important in a relationship?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/importance-of-trust\/\"><b>Trust is essential<\/b><\/a><b> in relationships because it reflects how much you can rely on another person. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without trust, insecurities and doubts can easily creep in, making it hard to feel secure and open with your partner.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4228379\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> suggests that people view trust as a marker of fidelity and emotional intimacy, which is why a relationship without trust often lacks depth and connection.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learning how to build trust in a relationship not only strengthens your bond but also encourages personal growth by steering you away from insecurities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, how to trust your partner? It&rsquo;s all about honesty, consistency, and keeping promises&mdash;big or small. Trust isn&rsquo;t just given; it&rsquo;s built over time through everyday actions that show you&rsquo;re there for each other. And remember, trust is a two-way street&mdash;it requires effort from both partners to truly flourish.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-long-does-it-take-to-establish-trust-in-a-relationship\"><\/span><b>How long does it take to establish trust in a relationship?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><b>Trust is not a given; it is often earned over time. And earning trust requires time in any relationship.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Romantic relationships are an<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/trust-building-exercises\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ongoing practice in building trust<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where you can keep getting better as time passes. Every<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/how-to-survive-the-different-stages-of-a-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">stage of a relationship has its challenges<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and that might test your trust in your partner differently each time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maintaining a healthy body is a life-long effort, but it gets easier if you have the right habits and mindset. The same applies to maintaining healthy relationships that are built on mutual trust and respect.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It might be challenging to trust your partner when you don&rsquo;t know them that well. But by learning how to build trust in a relationship, you can make your relationship better while<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/couples-quiz-how-well-do-you-know-your-partner\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">getting to know your partner better<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that you know the importance of trust in relationships, are you wondering how to build trust in a relationship?<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-does-a-lack-of-trust-affect-a-relationship\"><\/span><b>How does a lack of trust affect a relationship?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A lack of trust in a relationship can feel like trying to build a house on shaky ground&mdash;it&rsquo;s unstable and stressful. Trust is what keeps a relationship grounded, and without it, even the strongest bond can crumble over time.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-104365\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/Beige-Minimalist-Timeline-Diagram-Graph.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"804\" height=\"603\"><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8-signs-of-strong-trust-in-a-relationship\"><\/span><b>8 signs of strong trust in a relationship<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust is the foundation that keeps a relationship strong and steady. When trust is solid, it allows both partners to feel safe, open, and secure, making everything from communication to emotional intimacy flow more easily. But what are the real, everyday signs that trust is thriving in your relationship?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are 8 practical signs of strong trust:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Not afraid to be yourself<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most obvious sign of trust in a relationship is when you are not afraid to be yourself around your partner, and they feel the same. It points at mutual respect and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/understanding-relationships\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">understanding that has developed within the relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each partner can flourish when they allow the other the space to be who they are, without negative judgment. All of us are different, so why try to mold your partner into what you want? Instead, why not appreciate and celebrate their individuality?<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. Can share past pain<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A big sign of trust is when you can<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/emotional-intimacy\/how-to-share-your-feelings-with-your-spouse\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">share painful memories with your partner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. You can only be vulnerable with someone when you feel secure and understood in their presence. If you and your partner can do this, you have a trusting and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/what-is-the-definition-of-a-healthy-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthy relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>3. Don&rsquo;t check their phone\/social media<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How often do you try peeking at your partner&rsquo;s phone? When in a relationship built on a solid foundation of trust, there is no need to check on each other&rsquo;s online activities. Checking their conversations is a marker of doubt, which could eventually destroy things.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wondering how to build trust in a relationship? Don&rsquo;t doubt them and check on their messages with other people.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. Don&rsquo;t feel controlled\/manipulated<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sharing your life with someone is difficult, and it becomes painful when they are trying to control your actions and words. Your partner could do it directly by letting you know what you should change, or they could use<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/recognize-and-handle-manipulation-in-relationships\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">effective manipulation to ensure the change<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can&rsquo;t trust someone when they try to control you as they don&rsquo;t appreciate you as you are. A controlling partner might look at you and try to get rid of things that make you who you are.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>5. Your friendships are not affected<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Look around. Are your friends still there? Is your family still there?&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/build-strong-relationship\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Couples that trust each other<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> don&rsquo;t try to affect changes in their partner&rsquo;s friendship. They don&rsquo;t feel threatened by the strong bonds that you might have with others. They trust you and your love for them unconditionally.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>6. Sharing responsibilities<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is an important one. When you trust someone completely, you will be comfortable sharing responsibilities with them. These responsibilities can be financial, functional, or emotional. It could even include taking care of the household, pets, or children together.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/counseling\/how-do-i-make-my-partner-realize-their-responsibilities\/\" title=\"How Do I Make My Partner Realize Their Responsibilities?\">How Do I Make My Partner Realize Their Responsibilities?<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>7. Asking for help<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Admitting that you need help can be difficult for some people, but when you feel comfortable and trust someone, it isn&rsquo;t difficult at all. Trusting someone makes it possible to ask them for<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/ways-to-help-a-friend-in-a-bad-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">help whenever you are in a difficult situation<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or are hurting.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>8. Admitting when you are unhappy<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A big sign of trust is when you can tell your partner if you are unhappy with any aspect of the relationship. It shows that you are not afraid of their reaction to something, and you know they will work with you to find a solution.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How-do-you-fix-trust-issues-in-a-relationship\"><\/span><b>How do you fix trust issues in a relationship?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fixing trust issues in a relationship can feel overwhelming, but it&rsquo;s possible with patience, effort, and a commitment to growth. Trust is fragile, but it&rsquo;s also something that can be rebuilt with time and dedication. Here&rsquo;s how you can start repairing trust and nurturing a healthier connection.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Open and honest communication<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first step to fixing trust issues is creating a space for open, transparent conversations. Both partners need to be willing to talk honestly about what caused the trust to break and how it made them feel.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid blaming, and focus on expressing feelings and understanding each other&rsquo;s perspectives. It&rsquo;s through this communication that healing begins.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Rebuild slowly with consistency<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust won&rsquo;t be restored overnight, so take things step by step. Consistent actions&mdash;no matter how small&mdash;can go a long way in restoring trust. Be reliable, show up when you say you will, and keep your promises.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consistency is one of the most effective ways to show that you&rsquo;re serious about rebuilding trust.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Practice patience and forgiveness<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both partners need to be patient with the process of rebuilding trust. Mistakes will happen, but it&rsquo;s important to learn how to forgive and move forward, instead of holding on to past hurts. Forgiveness helps clear the emotional weight that can hold your relationship back.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anne B&ouml;ckler-Raettig, Assistant Professor at the Institute of Psychology at W&uuml;rzburg University, explains the psychology of trust. Watch this video:<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/wc3VhvgUtB8?si=T1_epjTyn-xkW9Dg\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">&#65279;<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15-ways-to-help-build-trust-in-your-relationship\"><\/span><b>15 ways to help build trust in your relationship<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust is a five-letter word that<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/things-that-can-make-or-break-your-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">can make or break a relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Relationships are built on trust, and you can develop this with a bit of effort and insight. Learn how to build trust in a relationship with the 15 ways mentioned below, and then watch out for positive changes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Communicate effectively<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Looking for an answer to the question of how to build trust in a relationship?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/effective-relationship-communication-skills\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Communication<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an important factor in building trust between partners in a relationship. Partners<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/top-10-causes-of-relationship-communication-problems\/\"> <b>should communicate their problems<\/b><\/a><b> instead of sitting on them and brooding to build trust in a relationship.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/effective-relationship-communication-skills\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When it comes to communication<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, do it face to face. Personal and verbal communication strengthens the bond between partners in a relationship. Please don&rsquo;t decide to communicate over emails or phone calls, but instead, make it more personal and direct.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While communicating, make sure you<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/power-of-eye-contact\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">keep eye contact with your partner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, as frequent eye contact during a discussion strengthens the bond of partners. These <\/span><b>small non-verbal cues also help partners underline the importance of trust in a relationship.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/b><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. Don&rsquo;t keep secrets<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do you trust your partner if you feel some secrets are plaguing your relationship?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For building trust in the relationship between you and your partner, transparency is critical. <\/span><b>No compromised honesty or secrets if you are learning to trust again.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust in marriages or relationships needs openness and honesty. Building trust in a relationship and keeping secrets are mutually exclusive.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you plan to build trust with your partner, you must also plan to not keep secrets and be open with your partner. To be a trustworthy partner, you must be honest in all your dealings and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/heart-to-heart-relationship-conversations\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">conversations with your partner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do you build trust in a relationship? The simple answer to this is to refrain from <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/keeping-secrets-can-destroy-a-marriage\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">keeping any secrets from your partner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Secrets break up relationships extremely fast, so it is essential to be honest and upfront about issues that arise together or individually. If you are struggling with overcoming trust issues, practice keeping a non-judgmental, open mind towards your partner.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having an open mind towards your partner helps them share their deepest darkest secrets, which is a sign that they trust you.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/secrets-you-should-forever-keep-from-your-lover\/\" title=\"15 Secrets in a Relationship That Are Better Left Unsaid\">15 Secrets in a Relationship That Are Better Left Unsaid<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>3. Learn to say no<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-69917\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/ways-on-how-to-build-trust-in-a-relationship.jpg\" alt=\"happy white couple having ice cream together and laughing together\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to trust in a relationship if you feel stifled by giving in to your partner&rsquo;s demands, reasonable or unreasonable?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&rsquo;t have to say yes every time to everything your partner wants or proposes to do. It would be best if you were not forced to endure what you don&rsquo;t like. When a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/what-exactly-is-an-equal-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">relationship is based on equality<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, it will be easier for both of you to move forward.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To build trust in a relationship, remember that if you don&rsquo;t like something they propose to do, simply say no. You shouldn&rsquo;t feel forced to do something in any relationship.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, how to make someone trust you in a relationship? <\/span><b>Don&rsquo;t pander to your partner&rsquo;s whims to make them happy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or build trust in a relationship, as it will <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/behaviors-that-ruin-a-relationship\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ruin the relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>4. Set boundaries<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How do you build trust in a relationship if one partner constantly oversteps boundaries?<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/counseling\/setting-healthy-boundaries-in-a-relationship\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Setting clear boundaries together<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is essential to building trust among partners.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, how to make your boyfriend trust you if he can&rsquo;t wrap his head around the concept of downtime alone or respectful boundaries? Or perhaps a girlfriend who turns skeptical about your need for time with yourself?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Setting boundaries helps explain how much space you&rsquo;re comfortable with within a relationship, emotionally or physically.&nbsp;<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Boundaries can be about all sorts of things:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/need-alone-time-in-a-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how much time you need alone<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, how comfortable you are telling other people about your relationship, and so on. Understanding one another&rsquo;s boundaries is helpful when it comes to building trust in the relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/personal-boundaries\/\" title=\"10 Personal Boundaries You Need in Your Relationship\">10 Personal Boundaries You Need in Your Relationship<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>5. Keep your promises<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to build trust in a relationship again if<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/breaking-promises-in-a-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">broken promises are denting the relationship&rsquo;s happiness<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/vows\/marriage-promises-going-beyond-to-love-honor-and-cherish\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> keep your promises<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">! Keep your words and your promises. If you promise your partner that you are going to do something, make sure you do it.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It makes sense that we want to keep promises, but the little things you promised often get overlooked in relationships. <\/span><b>Keeping your promises about little things is just as important as keeping your promises about the big things if you want to build trust in a relationship.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, if you don&rsquo;t meet a deadline, call your partner and explain what is holding you back; remember to pick up those items from the grocery store and pay the bills on time.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember, <\/span><b>trust is earned with these small acts of thoughtfulness and accountability towards each other. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While these things seem small and might be overlooked, they go a very long way when trying to develop trust in a relationship.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>6. No cheating<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is in the natural tendency of humans to be attracted to more than one person. But this does not warrant<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/infidelity\/how-to-stop-cheating-your-partner\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">you to cheat on your partner<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here&rsquo;s the caveat about wanting to build trust with your spouse &ndash; even if you are bored with the relationship, spunk it up or else recalibrate your priorities in life.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, how to earn trust in a relationship? Simply put, you should not cheat on your partner because they are not fun to be with or you do not enjoy their company anymore.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>To build trust in a relationship, make sure you tell your partner if you&rsquo;re not happy with the way things are between the two of you, and sort it out, or else seek professional help before considering looking out or walking out of the relationship.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5709195\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> shows that past infidelity increases the risk for further infidelity in the future, which makes trusting a cheater difficult.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learning how to gain<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/building-trust-after-a-bad-relationship\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> trust back<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> after a breach of trust is the most challenging question to answer. It&rsquo;s best<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/trust-in-your-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">to build respect and maintain trust in relationships<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> than to later wonder how to trust someone once you are cheated.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/infidelity\/why-you-should-not-cheat\/\" title=\"15 Reasons Why You Should Not Cheat on Your Partner\">15 Reasons Why You Should Not Cheat on Your Partner<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>7. Take responsibility for your actions<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-69921\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/08\/ways-on-how-to-build-trust-in-a-relationship-3.jpg\" alt=\"woman and man in the kitchen together, sitting and enjoying each others company\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<p><b>To build trust in a relationship, you should own up to your behavior, actions, and inactions. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&rsquo;t try<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/how-to-stop-the-blame-game-in-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">to shift the blame to a circumstance<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or someone else. Learning to trust in a relationship requires<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/accepting-responsibility-in-relationships\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">taking responsibility for all your actions<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It would also be a good idea to try trust-building activities for couples like:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Scheduling fun together<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Engaging in<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/source.wustl.edu\/2010\/03\/meaningful-conversation-may-be-key-to-happiness\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><b> profound, meaningful talks<\/b><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Coining terms of endearment for each other<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Asking for forgiveness<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Saying &ldquo;I love you&rdquo; more often<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sharing a gratitude list<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedaily.com\/releases\/2015\/10\/151021170814.htm\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><b>Thanking your partner<\/b><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Befriending healthy couples who rub off their relationship satisfaction on you&nbsp;<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Building and achieving mutual goals (exercise, finances, professional success)<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/trust-building-exercises\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">trust-building exercises for couples<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will help cement trust in relationships and also answer the question,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/how-to-resolve-trust-issues-in-a-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">how to fix trust issues in a relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the ways to build trust in a relationship is to be honest with yourself and your partner as to why you made your decisions, actions, and inactions.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>8. Be present and engaged<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>A seemingly simple way to figure out how to build trust in a relationship is by simply<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/being-present-in-a-relationship\/\"> <b>choosing to be present with your partner<\/b><\/a><b>.&nbsp;<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In relationships, over time, complacency can set in and make you withdraw from your partner emotionally. Withdrawing from your partner can help insecurities fester and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/how-to-identify-and-overcome-relationship-doubts\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">bring doubts into the relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By being present and engaged with your partner and their needs, you can reassure them of your<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/commitment-and-seeing-it-through\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">continued commitment to them<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and thus help build trust with your partner.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED QUIZ : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/how-has-being-engaged-affected-your-couple\" title=\"How Has Being Engaged Affected Your Couple?\">How Has Being Engaged Affected Your Couple?<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>9. Respond to your partner&rsquo;s needs<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>Life can be highly demanding, but prioritize your partner&rsquo;s needs consistently. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learn how to build trust in a relationship by<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/mental-health\/taking-care-of-each-other\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">looking out for each other<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your partner, at times, may not tell you what they need to feel better, but you build trust<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/communication\/how-to-communicate-your-needs-in-a-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">by trying to address their needs<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> regardless. You should try to look out for them at all times to let them know that you are there for them.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>10. Be honest<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sounds easy? Then try it. Relationships can be tricky, and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/honesty-in-a-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">honesty is an important way to establish trust in a relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><b>Try to be honest about the good things and things that might be a bit difficult to address.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Honesty is a tool that ensures that your partner knows that you are not trying to deceive them. They can then trust you to give them an honest opinion at all times and also can learn to trust your words blindly.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED QUIZ : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/quizzes\/honesty-quiz-for-couples\" title=\"Honesty Quiz for Couples: Is Your Relationship Honest?\">Honesty Quiz for Couples: Is Your Relationship Honest?<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>11. Giving the benefit of doubt<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doubts are destructive, aren&rsquo;t they? <\/span><b>Trust is the healthy addition to relationships we can build<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/giving-your-spouse-the-benefit-of-the-doubt\/\"> <b>by giving our partner the benefit of the doubt<\/b><\/a><b>, even when the proof is insufficient.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take a leap of faith for the person you love, and they will value your faith in them. Once they know you believe in them, they will feel secure and learn to be more open.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>12. Address the issues<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Denial is a drug. It can be addictive and an escape from all that is real and important. But denial is not good in your journey to learn how to build trust in a relationship.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>There are<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/solutions-for-8-common-relationship-issues\/\"> <b>issues in all relationships<\/b><\/a><b>, and it is healthy to address them immediately.&nbsp;<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you bring things up, you can<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/what-keeps-couples-together\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">work together as a couple<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to solve the problem. Not only will this<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/top-characteristics-of-a-healthy-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">make the relationship healthier<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but it will also let your partner know that you are invested in making things better.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/fear-in-relationships\/\" title=\"7 Ways to Address Fear in Relationships &#038; Support Your Partner\">7 Ways to Address Fear in Relationships &#038; Support Your Partner<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>13. Don&rsquo;t take love for granted<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is an important one. Isn&rsquo;t it difficult for you to trust someone that you feel is taking you for granted? Yes? Your partner is no different.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/appreciating-and-valuing-your-spouse\/\"><b>Value your partner<\/b><\/a><b> and all that they do for you.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Appreciate them, and don&rsquo;t let complacency<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/six-things-that-can-destroy-your-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">destroy your relationship<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It isn&rsquo;t easy to find someone you love who also gets you. So why not let them know just how much you love them?<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>14. Celebrate vulnerability<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let your guard down even though it might be difficult. <\/span><b>Exposing your vulnerable side can let your partner know that you trust them enough to reveal sensitive things.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It will create an environment where they, too, can do the same.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In life,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/tips-to-become-vulnerable-in-relationship\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">we can be vulnerable<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> around only those we trust and who won&rsquo;t judge us. Once you expose your emotional scars, it will be easier for your partner to do the same.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/journals.sagepub.com\/doi\/full\/10.1177\/0265407519853047\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Studies<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> have concluded that when vulnerable moments\/disclosures are met with support, the<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">experience of intimacy<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and satisfaction in the relationship increases.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>15. Take risks together<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><b>Relationships are risky business, but you can also learn how to build trust in a relationship by taking risks together.&nbsp;<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is easier to do things you are afraid of with someone else, especially if they share your fears. But if you<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/fear-in-relationships\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">manage to get past the fear together<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you learn to have confidence in each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/relationship\/are-open-relationships-worth-the-risk\/\" title=\"Are Open Relationships Worth the Risk?\">Are Open Relationships Worth the Risk?<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A-journey-worth-taking\"><\/span><b>A journey worth taking<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Trust is the heartbeat of every strong relationship, and while it can be fragile, it&rsquo;s never too late to repair it.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It&rsquo;s not about being perfect; it&rsquo;s about showing up consistently, communicating openly, and giving each other grace when mistakes happen. The journey to rebuild might feel slow, but with patience, it leads to a deeper, more meaningful connection.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Learning how to build trust in a relationship and understanding the ways to build trust in a relationship are crucial steps to making that trust last.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&rsquo;re wondering how to gain trust in a relationship, start by focusing on consistent honesty, reliability, and being open to vulnerability. These are the keys to building something truly lasting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, if you&rsquo;re ready to take that first step, start by having an honest conversation. Lay the groundwork for trust to grow again, and remember&mdash;it&rsquo;s the small, everyday actions that make the biggest difference. Ready to rebuild? Now&rsquo;s the time to take action and start fresh.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false,"raw":""},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Trust is the glue of life. It&rsquo;s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It&rsquo;s the foundational principle that holds all relationships. Said American educator and author Stephen Covey, and it couldn&rsquo;t be more true.&nbsp; In relationships, trust is the invisible thread that strengthens the bond between two people, keeping them connected even when times get tough. But how do you build trust in a relationship, especially when life throws challenges your way?&nbsp; Have you ever caught yourself questioning whether you or your partner are truly transparent with one another? Do you wonder if there&rsquo;s a way to nurture that <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1395,"featured_media":27391,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[9],"tags":[2565],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16910"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1395"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16910"}],"version-history":[{"count":32,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16910\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":105649,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16910\/revisions\/105649"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27391"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16910"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=16910"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=16910"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}