Actively Build and Signal Trustworthiness Every Day

List all your current promises and commitments. Include big and small—delivery deadlines, returning a friend’s call, or meeting a reporting milestone.

Identify which promises are at greatest risk of not being kept. Note where you’re uncertain, overcommitted, or where circumstances changed. Be honest with yourself and others.

Communicate proactively about risks and limitations. Reach out early to flag any doubts or changes. Use clear language to establish new expectations and reassure partners of your good intent.

Track how others respond when you actively manage expectations. Notice whether your transparency increases their confidence—even if the short-term message is disappointing.