CircleBridge bookExplore the concept
Trust is created through experiences over time. The authors describe personal storytelling, one-on-one conversations, and shared listening practices as conditions that help people risk honest engagement. A declaration that a space is safe is insufficient; participants notice whether invitations are real, whether confidentiality is honored, and whether their stories are met with judgment or unsolicited solutions. Trust also depends on clearly naming when a reflective space begins and ends. A leader’s willingness to share an appropriate story can open a door, while others remain free to decide how much to share.
A practice to try
Choose one relationship that matters to your work. Identify a small commitment you can keep this week and ask what the other person needs you to understand.
Explore it in the book
Companion guidance by Scott Simpson and Sharla Steever. Consult the book alongside these resources; activities and summaries do not replace the complete book.