Practice Reliability | A Core Value

We all have that friend that we can count on.

When she says she will do something, it gets done. She is the one that you call on that will deliver what you need, no matter what. She possesses the core value of reliability.

That is the kind of person I want to be and what I expect from a business or service that I have hired. We place great importance on people and businesses who are able to consistently deliver on their commitments and service.

With reliability, one is able to build strong relationships, both at work and on a personal level.

Oxford defines reliability as “The quality of being trustworthy or of performing consistently well.”

Why it is Important to Practice Reliability

Reliability is one of the most valued traits in a person.

You not only want to be reliable to others but to yourself as well.

Are you reliable to your own commitments? When you vow to work out consistently, drink eight glasses of water a day, or get eight hours of sleep every night, are you following through with what you told yourself you were going to do?

If you constantly cancel appointments, how will you be effective at your job, be a good friend or spouse, or get into shape? It starts with the simple commitments that blossom into a proven track record of being reliable.

We expect reliability throughout our lives.

We want reliable friends and coworkers to do what they say they will.
Airlines are expected to land and take off on time.
We expect restaurants to have consistently good quality food and service.
Our employers are expected to deliver a paycheck in exchange for quality work on a consistent schedule.
Reliable mail is delivered on time.

You get the picture. Reliability is a core value that is key to all aspects of our community.

What is a Reliable Person

A reliable person keeps their word. It’s a person we can count on because they always follow through and don’t let you down. They have a proven track record from the past and present, and therefore we have confidence in this person’s word in the future.

If we want to be considered to be reliable, we must practice reliability. It seems simple, but how many times have we broken those little promises we make? We have all been guilty of saying things like, “Let’s get together for lunch sometime.” or “I’ll get back to you.” and then we don’t take action on those items.

When we always follow through with what we say we will do, it is impressive and builds trust and credibility.

5 Ways to Practice Reliability and Be More Reliable

There are several reasons we aren’t more reliable. The basis of practicing reliability is to understand the reasons and conquer the roadblocks so that others can trust our reliability.

Be Specific

We need specific guidelines and a full understanding of what we said we would do to be reliable. This will clear up any misunderstandings so that we can follow through accordingly.

When we have specific intentions, it is hard to come up with excuses as to why we didn’t execute.

Be Prepared

We need to have a clear plan on how to accomplish what we said we do. You also need to know the specific steps and what you will need to execute the plan.

If you have a report due for work, set the due date on the calendar and work backward. Note all the steps that need to be done to accomplish this goal and work backward. Place all of the mini-deadlines for each task in your calendar, then get to work.

When you can execute your plan and present your report on or before the due date, you will be considered reliable and gain respect.

Follow the Plan

It is important to have clear and specific expectations. When you know what is expected, the timeframe, and the location, you can plan to follow through with what you said you are going to do.

Then your brain won’t be overwhelmed with the task at hand.

Don’t Over Commit

Often we overcommit ourselves with good intentions. Unfortunately, this sometimes has our heads spinning, and we cannot fulfill our obligations. This leads others to believe we are unreliable.

Say “no” more often so that the ones you say yes to can be followed up with fully.

Do Your Best

When you don’t overcommit, it allows you to do your best on the commitments that you do make. Be on time to work or a meeting.

Keep your word. Show that you care and show up with a good attitude about what you committed to. If you are struggling to stay positive, remind yourself of why you committed to that. Is it is to collect a paycheck at the end of the week? Will you feel better and be healthy if you stick to your exercise routine? Does it make your spouse happy when you detail his car for him?

If you say yes, be 100%, not just 50%. Show up and fulfill your commitments with gusto. When you practice reliability, you will bring yourself more success and happiness in business, relationships, and your own self-worth.

Quotes to Practice Reliability

Affirmations For Reliability

I am reliable and trustworthy.
In all that I do, I am responsible and reliable.
I am true to my word- both to myself and others.

Final Thoughts About Reliability

Being worthy of trust takes time. Start with the small commitments you make to yourself. Then venture onto dependable, consistent behavior to your friends and in your workplace.

Practice your reliability core value to be someone that people can count on. This will, in turn, lead to respect and trust in yourself, your relationships, and your peers in the workplace.

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