Is trust scarce? 

December 8, 2024

I recently participated in an online business conference with Seth Godin, and he said something about trust that really struck me:

“I’d rather be trusted than interesting.”

While Seth was speaking about trust in the marketing and business world, it made me think deeply about trust in personal relationships. After all, marketing is ultimately about building trusted relationships with clients and customers, right?

And isn’t the same true in our personal lives? Relationships thrive when trust is present. 

Having been in relationships where trust has been compromised, I’m reminded that trust is the foundation of all healthy relationships.

But clearly, trust isn’t the only quality that matters. This got me thinking:

What are the most important qualities for creating and maintaining healthy, empowered relationships that thrive?

I started jotting down a list—and wow, it turned out to be both comprehensive and personal. It reflected my own values and experiences, and it dawned on me….

While you and I may share similar qualities that we value, your list might look a little different from mine—and that’s okay. 

Even the people we’re in relationships with might value different things.

So, as we move toward a new year, I’d like to invite you to do a simple, reflective exercise with me—one that ties directly into planting seeds for healthier, more empowered relationships in 2025.

12 Qualities of Healthy Relationships Exercise

Forget the 12 Days of Christmas—what are the 12 most important qualities you value in the relationships in your life?

Here’s how to start:

1. Grab a journal and a pen.
2. Set a timer for 5 minutes and begin writing the qualities that come to mind when you think about what’s most important to you in a healthy relationship. (No overthinking—just let it flow.)
3. Pause and reflect on your list.
4. Circle or highlight the words that stand out or feel non-negotiable to you.

There’s no right or wrong answer here. Your list is as unique as you are, and this exercise is simply about creating awareness.

When you become aware of what really matters most to you in your relationships you cultivate a sense of empowerment and gain clarity about: 

your boundaries

your values 

what you want to nurture moving forward

After all, your relationships are the foundation of your well-being. 

Whether it’s with your significant other, kids, friends, extended family members, or even simply your relationship with yourself, healthy, empowered relationships are the key to a fulfilling life.

So, as you wrap up this year and look toward 2025, I invite you to focus on creating relationships that are aligned with your values—relationships that help you thrive.

I’d love to hear what comes up for you as you do this exercise. What qualities stood out on your list? 

Hit reply with your top three qualities!

I wonder how these insights might shape the way you show up in your relationships in 2025?

Here’s to planting the seeds for more trust, connection, and joy in the year ahead. 🌱

in trust and gratitude,

Annmarie Chereso
Author, Speaker, Coach, & Meditation Teacher

PS: Go into the new year with the tools to create Drama-Free Relationships! 🌟 For a limited time, enroll in Drop the Drama for only $222 – your pathway to deeper connections in your most important relationships. Learn more and secure your spot today – your future self will thank you! Enroll NOW.