Are You Creating Trust?
Psychology Today
by Nick Morgan Ph.D.February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Trust plays a critical role in organizational success, as it fosters collaboration and innovation among leaders, employees, customers, and partners. Neuroscience reveals that trust is an unconscious decision made quickly—often within half a second—and influenced by factors like facial expressions, shared experiences, language similarities, and humility. These insights can help individuals build stronger relationships.
Recent studies highlight the power of expressive faces in building trust. When people show emotions on their faces, others are more likely to perceive them as trustworthy because they feel they understand their behavior under various circumstances. Sharing personal stories or secrets also strengthens trust by creating a sense of familiarity and connection. While it may feel burdensome, revealing personal information can actually reduce stress for both parties.
Using language that resonates with others is another key factor in building trust. Subtle similarities in speech patterns or word choices create a sense of belonging, as people are more likely to trust those they perceive as part of the same "tribe." Additionally, humility plays a significant role in fostering trust. Admitting limitations and recognizing uncertainties can make individuals appear more authentic and relatable.
For leaders, understanding these principles is essential for creating a trusting environment. Expressing emotions openly, sharing personal stories, aligning language with others, and acknowledging vulnerabilities can help build strong, lasting relationships. In the context of health and mental well-being, trust is particularly important because it reduces stress, fosters collaboration, and enhances overall well-being in both individuals and organizations.
In conclusion, trust is not just a nice-to-have but a critical component of effective leadership and organizational success. By leveraging insights from neuroscience, individuals can create more authentic connections that benefit their personal and professional lives.
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/25/2026