Rebuilding Trust After a Rift
When trust is broken (whether with a family member, friend, or partner) it can leave a fracture that feels impossible to heal.
While reconciliation isn’t always the right choice, if you do want to try again, it takes time, consistency, and mutual effort.
Why Trust Breaks in Relationships
Betrayal of values (lying, secrets, broken agreements)
Unresolved conflict that lingers for months or years
Repeated patterns of harm or disrespect
Steps to Rebuild Trust
1. Clarify Your Intentions
Ask yourself: Do I want to reconnect because it’s healthy, or because I feel guilty, pressured, or lonely?
2. Start Small
Trust grows with consistent, small acts—showing up on time, following through, listening without defensiveness.
3. Have Honest Conversations
Name what happened without sugarcoating. Avoid blame-heavy language that shuts down dialogue.
4. Set Boundaries Early
Rebuilding doesn’t mean ignoring harmful patterns. Keep limits in place as trust regrows.
5. Be Patient
Healing takes longer than breaking. Allow space for setbacks without giving up if the relationship still feels worth it.
Remember This
Rebuilding trust isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about deciding if the relationship can exist in a healthier form going forward.
If you need support navigating this process, here at Found we can help you with boundary work, conflict resolution, and emotional resilience.
Offices located in Provo, UT | Online therapy across Utah
