(Authenticity + Vulnerability) x Credibility = Trust I read a book recently that defined Trust by the formula above. I agree with this formula and have seen many relationships falter as a result of lack of trust. I would like to dig in to this definition of trust in an effort to uncover a deeper truth: Communication is the Foundation of Trust. The dictionary defines Authentic as: Not false or copied; genuine; real; representing one’s true nature or beliefs. In each of these definitions of Authentic, we see that some type of communication is assumed - whether that communication is verbal or non-verbal. Vulnerable : Capable of or susceptible to being wounded or hurt; open to criticism. Again, we see communication at the foundation of this definition: criticism is verbal communication. Credible : Capable of being believed; believable; worthy of belief or confidence. This word points more towards a history or experience with the other party. It is an opinion that is based on previo...