Learning to Trust Again: Rebuilding After Trauma and Betrayal

Trust is often one of the first things to break when trauma enters our lives. Whether it’s betrayal by someone you loved, abandonment, abuse, or the emotional wounds of incarceration or addiction—learning to trust again can feel impossible.

But here’s what we believe at Awaken Your Lioness:

Trust can be rebuilt. And it starts with you.

Why Trust Feels So Hard After Trauma.

When you've experienced deep pain, your nervous system stays on high alert. You may:

• Doubt your instincts.

• Struggle to believe people mean well.

• Sabotage relationships because you fear being hurt again.

• Overthink, withdraw, or pretend you’re “fine” even when you’re not.

This isn’t because you’re broken. It’s because your body and heart are trying to protect you.

But living in survival mode keeps you stuck—and you deserve more than just survival.

Trust Begins With You.

Rebuilding trust doesn’t start with others. It begins by learning to trust yourself again.

That means:

• Listening to your inner voice.

• Honoring your boundaries.

• Being honest about what you feel and what you need.

• Giving yourself grace on the hard days.

When you trust yourself, you begin to attract people who honor that trust—not violate it.

4 Steps to Begin Rebuilding Trust

1. Acknowledge What Broke Your Trust

You can’t heal what you don’t name. Journaling about past betrayals or disappointments can help you release what you’ve been carrying.

2. Reconnect with Your Inner Wisdom

What decisions or choices have you made that felt right? Start reflecting on times when you did trust your gut—and it led to peace.

3. Start Small with New Relationships

You don’t have to rush. Set small expectations. Notice how someone responds to your boundaries. Trust is built in small, repeated moments.

4. Be Compassionate with Yourself

It’s okay to be cautious. You’re not behind. There’s no shame in learning to trust again—it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.

Trusting Yourself Is the Foundation of a New Life

At Awaken Your Lioness, we know that healing is not about becoming someone else—it’s about coming home to yourself. As you rebuild trust within, you’ll find the courage to open your heart again—to safe people, to your dreams, and to the future you’re creating.

Trust is possible. Healing is possible.

And you are more than worthy of both.