Warren Buffett once said, “The world is not short of smart people but lacks reliable ones.” At the core of a person’s character lies reliability. Why is a reliable person trustworthy? They empathize, never evade problems, respond to everything, and give others peace of mind. In contrast, being with unreliable people wastes time and life. While being with intelligent people can make you move faster, being with dependable people helps you grow.
10 traits that reveal the most reliable people around you
1. Prompt responses
“Please reply upon receipt” may seem trivial, but it reflects whether a person is reliable. Someone who responds promptly to messages is responsible, polite, and dependable. Conversely, those who delay responses or ignore messages only to seek help later are often deemed not dependable due to their lack of sincerity.
2. Measured speech
Reliable people speak cautiously and act swiftly. Words can warm or wound, and speaking reflects one’s character. Actual skill lies in making others feel at ease through words. Speaking is instinctual, but speaking well is an art. It’s not just about conveying meaning but also about attitude and communication. A person’s speech reveals their principles and respect for others.
3. Avoiding pettiness
As writer Cai Chong humorously noted: “Avoiding small losses may bring short-term benefits but can cost integrity and dignity in the long run.” Reliable people do not obsess over trivial gains. They are generous and help others without expecting anything, understanding that value comes from personal effort.
4. Taking responsibility
Maugham said: “The best way to reveal a person’s nature is to give them responsibility.” Life presents challenges, and reliable people seek solutions rather than complain or shirk duties. A person who takes responsibility is far more trustworthy than one who avoids it. In life, everyone must bear their responsibilities. “Do not avoid difficulties; do not shirk duties.” Those who embrace responsibility are seen as dependable and are more likely to succeed.
5. Maintaining principles
“Without rules, nothing can be accomplished.” Principles and boundaries are crucial. They help maintain dignity and prevent losing oneself to momentary desires. A reliable person knows their limits and adheres to them, balancing desires and decisions without compromising integrity.
6. Practicing humility
As people mature, they realize that the more capable someone is, the more humble they become. Reliable people are modest and sincere, achieving success through hard work and earning trust and respect over time.
7. Attention to detail
Details create perfection. True reliability involves managing oneself and paying attention to details. As Dickens said: “Genius is attention to detail.” Success often stems from small actions; even minor details can change one’s destiny. Laozi said: “Great tasks must be done in detail.” Reliable people diligently handle every task, leading to significant results.
8. Effective execution
Reliable people may not be eloquent, but they are dependable in action. As a writer noted: “Most legends are ordinary people turning intentions into actions.” Speaking is easy, but doing is hard. Reliable people replace “later” with “now,” demonstrating strong execution skills.
9. Punctuality
Time management expert Cyril Northcote Parkinson said: “Time is the essence of events. Controlling time means controlling life’s events.” A person’s attitude towards time reflects their principles and determines their future. Punctuality shows respect for others and commitment to promises, making punctual people trustworthy and reliable.
10. Emotional stability
Emotional instability is considered a dangerous trait. Unstable people, despite their abilities, can harm those around them. Life is challenging, and everyone faces negative emotions. Reliable people manage their feelings, maintaining calm and rationality. Emotional stability is a trait of their high level of emotional intelligence. They process negative energy and maintain a positive attitude towards work and relationships.
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