What If You're Focusing on the Wrong Thing?

Let’s talk real for a moment: there’s a lot of pressure in the world today to “play the game” to get ahead. You know what I mean—the politics of making the right connections, saying the right things to the right people, and positioning yourself for that next big move.

We’ve all been there, trying to navigate situations where it feels like you’ve got to be more focused on managing optics than doing the work.

But can I tell you something? You’re focusing on the wrong thing.

I know, I know… it seems like that’s the way of the world. It seems like in order to climb, you have to compromise.

But let me remind you of this: true progress, the kind that lasts, doesn’t come from trying to outmaneuver others—it comes from building something solid.

And what’s more solid than trust?

The Real Foundation: Trust Over Politics

If you’ve ever found yourself getting caught up in office politics or trying to figure out the "right" moves to make, I want to challenge you to shift your focus. Playing the game may get you noticed for a minute, but building trust will carry you through seasons of change and transition.

When people trust you, they are more likely to support you, follow you, and open doors for you. You don't have to manipulate or strategize your way into a promotion. Show up consistently.

Be authentic.

Do what you say you’re going to do.

That’s where the real power lies.

Think about the people you respect the most. Are they the ones who were skilled at politics, or are they the ones who were rock-solid in their integrity, always delivering on their word?

Trust takes time to build, but it’s the kind of capital that doesn’t depreciate.

It grows with every interaction.

How to Build Trust in Your Daily Life

• Be Consistent – People trust what they can predict. When you’re consistent in your actions and decisions, others know they can rely on you.
• Communicate Clearly – Don’t make people guess your intentions. Be upfront, honest, and transparent. If something isn’t going to plan, be the one to speak up about it.
• Honor Your Commitments – Don’t overpromise and underdeliver. Even if it’s a small task, your word is your bond. Every time you fulfill a commitment, you’re reinforcing trust.
• Show Empathy – People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. Take time to understand others’ perspectives, needs, and concerns.
• Stay Authentic – You don’t have to be anyone else but YOU. People can spot a phony from a mile away. The more authentic you are, the more people are drawn to you.

Trust Unlocks Opportunity

In a world full of shortcuts, remember this: trust will open doors for you that manipulation and politics never could.

When people know they can count on you, they’ll want to elevate you.

You won’t have to fight for a seat at the table because they’ll reserve one for you.

This isn’t just true in the workplace, either. Building trust impacts every area of your life—your relationships, your personal growth, and even your mental and spiritual well-being.

When you focus on cultivating trust, you build a foundation that doesn’t crack under pressure.

Let’s Build Together

I believe there’s a community of people who are committed to doing things differently—people who want to grow, lead, and succeed by building trust and operating in integrity. If this resonates with you, I want to invite you to join us in The Morning Mindset Private Community. This is a space where we can dig deeper into these topics, share experiences, and support each other in the journey to building authentic success.

Interested in learning more, comment the word "More" below and I'll send you the details.

Last thing, if this was helpful to you, don't keep it to yourself, hit that "REPOST" button and share it.

Have a fantastic rest of the week,

Kisha Hicks