Laura Cowells personal perspective
Trust is the foundation upon which all relationships are built, whether in personal life, business, or community work. Yet, in today’s world, trust often feels fragile, frequently eroded by blinkered approaches, a lack of respect, and unrealistic expectations. As someone who juggles multiple roles across various sectors—from disability care to local government—I’ve witnessed first hand how these issues can undermine the very fabric of our communities.
The Challenge of Trust in a Competitive World
One of the most significant challenges I face, particularly in my role as a community leader and CEO, is the pervasive mentality of winning at all costs. In an age where success is often measured by how quickly and ruthlessly one can outmanoeuvre others, trust becomes a casualty. How can we trust when it seems people are always looking for a crack in our armour, ready to drive a wedge as soon as they find an opportunity?
I’ve seen this in the corporate world, where competition can sometimes overshadow collaboration. Even in the not-for-profit sector, where one might expect a higher degree of empathy and cooperation, the pressure to secure funding, gain recognition, or expand influence can lead to the same destructive behaviour’s. Trust, in these environments, can feel like a liability rather than a strength.
Blinkered Approaches – Narrowing Our Vision
A blinkered approach, where individuals or groups focus narrowly on their own goals or perspectives, is another significant obstacle to building trust. When people are unwilling or unable to see beyond their immediate concerns, they often fail to recognise the broader impact of their actions on others. This tunnel vision can lead to decisions that, while beneficial to one group, may harm the greater good.
The Importance of Respect and Realistic Expectations
Trust also hinges on respect and the setting of realistic expectations. When respect is absent, relationships quickly deteriorate. I’ve seen this play out in various settings, from council meetings to interactions within the disability sector. Whether it’s a lack of respect for differing opinions or an unwillingness to acknowledge the contributions of others, disrespect can sow seeds of mistrust that are difficult to uproot.
Realistic expectations are equally important. In the disability care sector, where I work as the CEO of a disability organisation, I’ve encountered countless families and individuals who place immense trust in our services. However, this trust can be fragile, particularly when expectations are not aligned. If we promise more than we can deliver, we risk shattering the trust that people have placed in us. It’s a delicate balance—providing hope and support while also being honest about the limitations and challenges we face.
Gratitude: A Path to Rebuilding Trust
Despite these challenges, I’ve learned that gratitude can be a powerful antidote to the erosion of trust. By focusing on what we have, rather than what we lack, we can cultivate a more positive and trusting environment.
As a Councillor, I’ve also found that building community trust requires a foundation of kindness and excellence. It’s not just about making the right decisions but about how we make those decisions. When we approach our responsibilities with genuine care for the people we serve and a commitment to doing our best, we create an environment where trust can flourish. Kindness in our interactions—whether with fellow councillors, staff, or residents—combined with a pursuit of excellence in our work, helps to bridge divides and promote a sense of shared purpose. By showing gratitude for the contributions of others and striving to serve the community with integrity, we can rebuild trust and create a more connected and safe community for all.
In my work with rare disease communities, particularly with Fibrous Dysplasia McCune Albright Syndrome (FD/MAS), I’ve seen how gratitude can transform lives. Families dealing with rare diseases often face overwhelming odds, yet many of them find strength in appreciating the small victories—the compassionate doctor, the supportive friend, the research breakthrough that offers a glimmer of hope.
In the disability sector, I’ve witnessed the profound impact of gratitude. When we acknowledge the hard work of caregivers, the resilience of those we support, and the dedication of our staff, we build a culture of trust that can withstand the pressures and challenges we face.
Moving Forward: A Call to Action
Trust is not something that can be taken for granted. It must be earned and nurtured, particularly in a world where blinkered approaches, disrespect, and unrealistic expectations are all too common. As soon as people see a crack, they may try to drive a wedge, but it’s up to us to ensure that those cracks are filled with understanding, respect, and gratitude.
I call on all of us—whether in leadership, caregiving, or as members of our communities—to reflect on how we can build and maintain trust in our relationships. Be mindful of our approaches, respect each other’s perspectives, and set realistic expectations. Above all, let’s cultivate gratitude for the contributions of those around us. By doing so, we can create a more trusting, connected, and safe community for everyone.
Remember, trust is fragile, but with care, it can be the foundation of something truly remarkable.
You Can Be Something
