In this episode of My BrainWise Coach, hosts Cole Bastian and Phil Dixon delve into the neuroscientific perspective of rebuilding trust. Following up from their previous discussion on the trust equation (credibility, reliability, vulnerability, and self-orientation), they break down the process of reestablishing trust when it has been broken. They explore the initial steps of recognizing broken trust, using body language and empathy, and discuss the importance of accountability, consistent actions, and transparent communication. The episode also covers techniques for both personal and professional contexts, offering listeners practical advice and reflection questions to guide their journey in strengthening and rebuilding trust in their relationships.

BrainWise Strategies for Rebuilding Trust

1. Apologize Authentically: A genuine apology acknowledging your actions and offering solutions is key in rebuilding trust.
2. Acknowledge Intent vs. Impact: Understand that unintended actions can still have detrimental effects and address them accordingly.
3. Demonstrate Consistency: Post-apology behaviors must consistently reflect accountability and reliability to slowly rebuild trust.
4. Embrace Transparency and Vulnerability: Being open and honest in communication fosters deeper connections, not just in personal relationships but professional ones too.
5. Exercise Patience: Trust restoration is not instantaneous. It requires time, patience, and ongoing effort to rebuild and strengthen.
6. Use Empathy as a Tool: Showing genuine empathy helps create a safe and nurturing environment essential for trust to flourish again.
7. Formulate Repair Strategies: Whether in a work or personal setting, establishing a structured conversation around issues can facilitate resolution and understanding.
8. Stay Intentional about Growth: Work collectively on growing from the experience, focusing on a future built on mutual understanding and respect.

00:00 Welcome and Episode Introduction

00:25 Recap of Last Week's Episode on Trust

01:16 Personal Updates and Life Events

03:39 BrainWise Moments of the Week

09:02 Deep Dive into the Trust Equation

13:18 Recognizing Broken Trust

20:46 Rebuilding Trust: First Steps

24:35 The Importance of Accountability in Rebuilding Trust

26:50 The First Step of Accountability

28:44 Intent vs. Impact

32:12 Forgive and Forget: A Complex Process

35:15 Issue Resolution Process

40:06 The Role of Empathy in Rebuilding Trust

47:56 Positive Outcomes of Rebuilding Trust

53:06 Reflection Questions and Conclusion