Trust.
Five simple letters, strung together to form a word so meaningful to our lives.
Everything we do in life takes a certain level of trust. In ourselves, in the people around us, in the material things we rely on (like cars and running water), and on an even more basic level, in the universe.
Work is easier when we trust the people around us. Ideas flow more freely, we are able to humble ourselves and openly admit when we screw up. And we get more done.
This week I had the opportunity to really dig in, troubleshoot and understand a very complicated issue with a group of women for whom I have tremendous respect and trust. The entire dynamic of the situation was different than many of the projects I work through on a daily basis.
When I reflected on what was different, I realized that it was the simple fact that we trusted each other. Yes, it was a hell of a complex issue, but just knowing that we were in it together made all the difference. And it proved to be both exciting and productive vs. stressful and frustrating.
Such a simple concept, but yet so important.
Life at home is also better when we have trust. We smile more, we laugh more, we sleep better and we enjoy the simple things in a deeper way.
A couple of nights ago, the boys wanted me to help them with homework (which doesn't happen very often now that they are older). We had a fun question and answer session for Jake's social studies test and a hilarious run-through of Ryder's Spanish verbal quiz. We trusted in each other and our ability to help one another. It was one of the best nights we've had in a long time. Simple, yet amazing. I wish every night with them could be like that.
So how do we keep that trust alive in all aspects of our lives?
It starts within us.
First and foremost, we need to trust in ourselves and know that we are doing the very best we can.
We need to believe that every step we take, every smile, every kind word, and every positive thought has an impact on our lives and the lives of those around us.
And we need to be grateful and engaged in all of life's simple, amazing moments.
It takes a certain level of trust to build a meaningful life.
The beauty of it is that we don't need a blueprint or even a building permit.
We just need to trust ourselves enough to know that we already have one.