How to Earn a Family Members Trust

Trust is usually not given freely, but earned instead. There are many things that you can do – and not do – in order to gain the trust of a family member. It may take time, but trust can come even in once damaged relationships. Try the following ideas in your relationships.
Be honest with the person
It is difficult for someone to trust you if you are not honest with them. This does not mean that you have to tell them every deep, dark secret, but do not lie to them. You want to show them that what you say is true. If you cannot tell them something, then be honest about that fact and give them a reason.
You want to show that you are trustworthy in general. For instance, if you blab about the secrets that other family members have entrusted to you, then they will probably figure you will do the same with their secrets. Show that you have dignity and do not gossip with information that is not yours.
Do as you promise
You want them to believe that you will follow through in your promises. Even if it is something little, it is important for you to do what you say. If you promise something small such as to record a television program for them and then do not do it, then they may doubt that you will be able to do something large for them. It is especially important for you to keep everything to yourself that they have told you in confidence. Even one breach of trust can weaken a relationship and damage the bond forever.
Show that you care
A family member may be more likely to trust you if they think that you are there for them for the right reasons. For instance, if you want them to tell you about a relationship, then show that you care about them and their lives and are not just finding out because it is “juicy” information. Tell them that you are there for them. What’s more, show them this by doing things for them. If they need a favor, then let them call on you.
It is also important to show the type of support that they need. Do not judge them or give unwanted advice if they just need someone to listen while they vent.
Trust them
It is difficult to trust someone that does not trust you back. In order to get them to trust you, you may have to put your own heart, secrets and life on the line. Tell them things about yourself that others do not know. Show that you are willing to speak to them about important things.
A close family bond should be filled with trust, but it does not always automatically come. The above techniques can help you incorporate this into your relationships.