Trust is a cornerstone of human existence. It is interesting to note that, in the world of commerce, the really huge transactions are generally initiated on trust. And certainly in daily life our existence is made easier, more fruitful and rewarding through trust!

Experience alone does not produce excellence. We need methodology, order, wisdom, insight, verve, passion, motivation and, most certainly trust. At least I believe that excellence without trust is hollow.

I am not sure that trust is a quantity. I have always considered trust as an absolute ... it is either there or it is not. I suppose one could quantify trust just as everything else in the business world is quantified! But I will stay with my moral interpretation and rely on trust as an unalterable condition ... it is there or it is not!

Ben Franklin said that glass, china and reputation are easily cracked and never well mended. Some words in our language have an aura, a sense, an importance beyond the word itself. When uttered, such words create an emotion. They are special words, deserving of a special reverence. Trust is one of those words.

The human condition responds to kindness, concern, nurturing ... and even if one is in a position of power or control, to use it as an element of motivation is both mean-spirited and non productive. The best managements are those which treat employees with respect ... they earn respect in return. Productivity is always better in companies that understand the human condition ... appreciate employees, treat them fairly, pay them appropriately, and are interested in their families and welfare.

Sincerity is a difficult quality to fabricate. It seems to me that it is easy to detect the lack of sincerity ... body language, expressions, tone and the words themselves are clues to insincerity. Frequently, expressions of sincerity are politically motivated, especially within a commercial environment. It is a social requirement for some, rather than a social grace! To be truly meaningful, the speaker must feel the sincerity within ... then, when expressed it comes forth as open, honest, real ... and yes, from someone you can trust!

Plato said that honesty is for the most part less profitable than dishonesty! I think that may be true in mundane terms, but for the Right Thinker it is only acceptable that trust is always the case ... not on occasion, but always.

Being trustworthy is an admirable character trait. It is being honest, reliable and responsible. Others will respect you more and want to continue relationships and dealing with you.

Excerpts from a new book, "Looking for a Better World." Read more at: http://www.buybooksontheweb.com/description.asp?ISBN=0-7414-2134-8

Dr. Malkin holds a B.Sc. in Business and a Masters and Ph.D. in Religion. He has made hundreds of visits to schools with a moving and effective motivational presentation, urging teens to do their personal best. His mentoring programs have empowered many, many children. His quest for years has been to teach the power of Right Action, working towards the goal of a better world.