Join Michael as he reflects on the profound words of his brother, who once said that trust is the foundation of any relationship. He explores the significance of trust in his work with clients, particularly in the context of helping children and families. Michael talks about the lack of trust in various relationships, such as between politicians and the electorate, and employers and employees, emphasising the importance of actions that promote trust, such as being transparent, consistent, and empathetic. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Trust is essential in all relationships: whether it's between men and women, parents and children, or professionals and clients. Without trust, it becomes difficult to help and support others effectively.
• Trust is the foundation for success: Trust is described as the vital ingredient or glue that holds everything together. When there is trust, it becomes easier to achieve goals and overcome obstacles. Without trust, every step becomes a mountain to climb.
• Actions that promote trust: Being open, transparent, consistent, and predictable are all behaviours that promote trust. Seeking permission instead of assuming it, listening attentively, admitting mistakes, displaying empathy, and being vulnerable with others are also trust-building behaviours.
• Actions that undermine trust: There are also behaviours that can create a lack of trust, including using force instead of obtaining consent, criticising and blaming others, lying, deceiving, and displaying a lack of care or empathy. These actions can lead to mistrust and disharmony in relationships.
• Surround yourself with the right people: When seeking advice or guidance, it is important to be selective about who you listen to and accept advice from. It is wise to seek counsel from individuals who have already achieved what you aspire to do. Surrounding yourself with extraordinary people who have accomplished similar goals can increase your chances of success. 

BEST MOMENTS

"When there is trust, you can move mountains. Without trust, every step is a mountain to climb."

"In our country, and in all countries around the globe, trust and faith in others is a vital but missing ingredient, responsible for so many problems all over the world." 

"Just being part of a different gender, culture, ethnicity, religion, class, sexual orientation or speak in a different language is for a lot of people sufficient to engender both suspicion and mistrust." 

"Your confidence in yourself is the ingredient that makes all the difference between success and failure." 

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Michael Watson is a qualified social worker and author with over thirty years of experience working with children and families. As an expert in family court, Michael is in a key position to assist, advise, and coach parents through their private law family proceedings and provide them with the information and skills to represent themselves successfully in court. His two books, ‘How to Represent Yourself in Family Court’, and ‘FAMILY COURT: Giving Evidence In Family Court’, provide parents with a clearer understanding of family court proceedings, legislation, and parenting skills.