5 Essential Traits of Emotionally Safe People: How to Foster Trust and Connection in Your Relationships
Are You an Emotionally Safe Person?
Have you ever wondered whether you are an emotionally safe person? Perhaps the better question is: do you want to be? The impact of being an emotionally safe person on your life, and on the lives of those around you, can be profound. It’s worth taking a moment to reflect on what it means to provide emotional safety to others and how it can transform relationships.
You might recall the movie The Devil Wears Prada from the early 2000s. It starred Meryl Streep as Miranda Priestly, the formidable editor-in-chief of a fashion magazine. Miranda's icy demeanor and exacting standards kept her employees constantly anxious, as they tried to avoid her wrath while meeting her impossibly high expectations. Miranda is what most would consider an emotionally unsafe person.
We all have Mirandas in our lives—people who make us feel as though we’re walking on eggshells. And, if we're honest, we may sometimes be the Miranda in someone else's life. Whether we are feeling anxious due to someone else's behavior or creating anxiety for others, the need for emotional safety is critical in any relationship.
Five Attributes of Emotionally Safe People
Here are my top five attributes that define emotionally safe people. Reflecting on these qualities can help you understand how to foster emotional safety in your own life and relationships.
Commitment to Others' Freedom Emotionally safe people allow others the freedom to be themselves, without the need for control. This means giving individuals the space to express their true selves in a variety of situations. When we commit to allowing others to be themselves, we create an environment where authenticity can flourish. Consider what it would mean for you to offer this kind of safety. How would it change your interactions? How would it allow you to be more authentically you?
Respect for Boundaries Boundaries are essential in any relationship. They define where one person ends and another begins. Without clear boundaries, even well-intentioned actions can feel intrusive or overwhelming. Emotionally safe people respect these limits, ensuring that everyone involved feels secure and respected. Reflect on how you handle boundaries in your relationships. Do you honor others' limits as well as your own?
Non-Judgmental Attitude Being non-judgmental is crucial because it allows individuals to express themselves freely without fear of criticism or rejection. When people feel they won't be judged, they are more likely to open up and share their true thoughts and feelings. This fosters trust and deeper connections. Ask yourself: Are you quick to judge, or do you create an environment where others feel safe to be vulnerable?
Empathy Empathy is the cornerstone of emotional safety. It involves understanding and validating the feelings of others. When we approach interactions with empathy, we ensure that the other person feels seen and heard, which builds trust and strengthens relationships. Reflect on your ability to empathize with others. How often do you truly listen and try to understand their perspective?
Consistent and Reliable Behavior Consistency and reliability build trust, which is essential for emotional safety. When people know what to expect from you, they feel more secure in their interactions. This reduces anxiety and fosters a sense of stability. Consider how consistent you are in your behavior. Can others rely on you to be a steady presence in their lives?
Emotional safety is a gift that we can offer to those around us, but it also enhances our own well-being. By striving to be emotionally safe, we not only nurture our relationships but also create an environment where everyone involved can thrive. Reflect on the attributes outlined above and consider how they play out in your life. Are you providing emotional safety to others, and are you receiving it in return? By committing to these principles, we can foster healthier, more fulfilling relationships and live more authentically ourselves.
If you're seeking guidance on fostering emotional safety in your relationships, reach out to Halos Counseling for professional support. This blog was written by Sarah Currie, Ph.D., LCMHC, who is dedicated to helping individuals and families cultivate emotional safety and deeper self-awareness.