Trust. Alliances.

Recently, on a mystery show I was watching, the commentary was made that the word “trust” originally meant “alliances”. Trust means so much more today, but certainly, at its core, are the alliances we build, both individually and professionally.

There are many players in our business world. And all of them need to be trusted. All of them are our alliances. Employees, vendors, consultants, customers, clients, and patients, they each play a pivotal role in our success, both as business professionals and individual owners. Evaluate these relationships in your business. If you do not trust but one of them, that needs to change. Doing business with someone in any capacity that you do not trust is usually a red flag that something about that relationship is not right. For the benefit of your company, identify it, either cure it or change to someone you do trust.

Years ago, a gentleman originally from China but running a firm outside of Toronto, told me he could only do business with someone he could look straight in the eyes. We became very good alliances and I truly enjoyed working with him and his team to assist them in their banking needs in the US. I often wonder how he is doing. I know they made it through the Pandemic in one piece, which, given the type of firm he runs, is success in and of itself. But, times have changed. We cannot often look one another straight in the eye anymore. The digital and Zoom world has taken the place of what was once talk by telephone or meet in person. Our high technology world provides a global office space, and we can still look one another in the eye via a computer. Granted, different, but still the same core concept of trusting those you do business with in any capacity.

As we move through the coming months, let this Memorial Day, where we remember those who gave their lives for our continued freedom, serve as a foundation for the rest of the year. Choose your employees, vendors, customers wisely. Ask yourself if you can truly trust them. We have been reminded too violently this month how short our lives can truly be. Make the most of them. and build upon your alliances, starting with trust.

To all our fallen Veterans, both human and otherwise, we salute you. Thank you for your service and ultimate sacrifice. We all need to do our best to make their sacrifices as meaningful as possible.

Trust yourself and your alliances, your life should certainly continue to be even more rewarding and your business should prosper ever more!

Be well.