It’s difficult to find trust in the modern world. Finding common ground, let alone safety with people who hold a different worldview, may be stressful and even painful as “differences of opinion” grow more and more personal and political conflicts feel like a danger to one’s identity. I consider it an honor to work with people I can trust every day, and my faith in them is based on their actions when things don’t go as planned. When everything is going well, it’s simple to maintain harmony, but when things go wrong, some traits help partnerships feel stronger and safer. I strive to provide an example of clear-cut, honest communication because I cherish it. Those that reflect that back to me are the collaborators I trust the most. It is simpler to be at ease with someone who accepts both your and their errors. Rather than lying awake all night pretending to be a well-oiled machine, I like to be able to admit when my disk space is full and offer a new deadline to address the issue and go on with the publishing. Most people feel most at ease in situations that are predictable. Having the ability to foresee someone’s response to an error is crucial to creating an environment where people feel trusted and can trust you in return.
