If I could change one thing about my personality, it would be how easily I trust people. It’s something I’ve known about myself for a long time, and while being trusting is often seen as a good trait, I’ve learned that too much of it can hurt more than help.
For me, trusting people comes naturally. I always want to believe the best in others. Whether it’s a new friend, a colleague, or even someone I barely know, I tend to give people the benefit of the doubt right away. I don’t question their intentions, and I rarely assume they have any reason to lie, manipulate, or use me. I guess I believe that everyone deserves a chance
But over time, I’ve realized this has opened me up to getting disappointed , more than once. There have been situations where I gave my time, energy, or loyalty to people who didn’t value it. I’ve shared things I probably shouldn’t have, extended kindness to those who didn’t return it, and stood by people who wouldn’t have done the same for me. Each time it happened, it left me feeling a little more cautious, but somehow I still fall back into the same habit. I think part of it is just wanting to see the good in everyone, but I’m slowly learning that not everyone deserves immediate trust.
I’m not saying I want to become cold or closed off. That’s not who I am, and I don’t want to lose the part of me that believes in connection and giving people chances. But if I could adjust this part of my personality, I’d want to be more balanced. I’d like to learn how to take my time before fully trusting someone. Maybe observe their actions over a period instead of believing their words right away. I want to stop giving people the full version of me before they’ve earned that level of access.
It’s hard, though. Trusting people too quickly is tied to being open and genuine, two things I value. But with time, I’m realizing that boundaries aren’t about being distant, they’re about protecting yourself. It’s not wrong to be careful with who you let in. In fact, it’s a form of self-respect.
So if I could change one thing, I’d want to be more mindful. Not colder, just wiser. I’d want to listen to my gut more, pay closer attention to red flags, and not feel guilty for stepping back when something doesn’t feel right. At the end of the day, I think we all grow by learning from the things we once thought were strengths, because even good qualities can hold us back if they’re not in balance.
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