TRUST

 

I do not know about you, but I find the stats on the deterioration of “TRUST” disturbing. The Pew Research Center found nearly 50% of young adults “low trusters.” (By this they mean they are more likely to see others as selfish, exploitive and untrustworthy.) This lack of trust translates into a low view of many institutions and leaders. Only 50% of young adults trust religious leaders and only 33% trust business and political leaders. When public trust in institutions, leaders and people implodes … watch out.

I have wondered for some time now if part of decline in the “Trust Quotient” in our country is because of how we define success and train leaders. One in-depth research study of the “Success Literature Published in the United States Since 1776” stands out. The researcher found that nearly all the “Success Literature” in our nation’s first 150 years focused on character, integrity, humility, fidelity, temperance, ethics, industry, modesty, long-term relationships and the Golden rule. True success and enduring happiness can only come from character.

However, the researcher found that after 150 years the “Success Literature” changed from a focus on character to a focus primarily on external things like power strategies, techniques, positive thinking, communication skills, marketing, image, short term gains, influence, making money and winning.

No doubt, there are many leadership techniques that can be helpful. However, the qualities we taught and wrote about extensively in our country for 150 years are the foundational keys to rebuilding “TRUST”. Is it any wonder Proverbs 20:6 asks a brilliant question, “Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, but who can find a trustworthy person?”

I actually think Jesus turned the real definition of success upside down when He said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” – Matthew 20:25-28

In my work in the political, business and faith spheres, I find that if you do not have TRUST many things become impossible. But, if you have TRUST almost anything becomes possible.