Reliable people don’t just keep promises, they remove uncertainty from other people’s lives

“Reliable people don’t just keep promises, they remove uncertainty from other people’s lives.”

—Shane Parrish, author of the Farnum Street Blog

Image from Unsplash by Andrius Budrikas

Reliable people do more than keep their word; they create peace of mind. When they say they will do something, others can stop wondering, second-guessing, or carrying the weight of uncertainty.

That is what makes reliability so powerful: it is not simply about follow-through; it is about reducing anxiety in the lives around you.

A reliable person becomes a steady point in a shifting world, someone others can trust with plans, deadlines and hopes.

In a culture where too many leave things vague, reliable people bring clarity. They don’t just complete tasks—they make life easier for everyone around them.

EXERCISE:

The Thin Book of Trust by Charles Feltman explains trust as a set of four behaviors: sincerity, reliability, competence, and care.

It’s a short, highly usable book that offers readers a clear framework and language for creating stronger relationships and results at work and in life.

“Trust is earned in drops and lost in buckets.”

“Trust is earned in drops and lost in buckets.”

—Attributed to several people, including Kevin Kelly and Keven Plank

Image from Unsplash by Darko Kriznik

Today’s quote is a poignant reminder of the delicate nature of trust.

Building trust requires consistent effort and reliability, with each small act contributing to a reservoir of faith.

Even a single betrayal, however, can drain this reservoir instantly, highlighting how fragile trust can be.

This principle underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and transparency in our relationships.

By recognizing the value of trust and the ease with which it can be lost, we can strive to nurture it with care and honesty, fostering stronger and more resilient personal and professional connections.

EXERCISE:

Consider reading The Speed of Trust by Stephen Covey and The Trusted Advisor by David H. Maister.  I’d also be happy to send you a copy of my trust-o-meter assessment if you email me at barry@dempcoaching.com