How do you navigate friendships when trust is hard for you after being bullied?

It's not really easy to build friendship again when the trust is shattered, after being bullied we naturally put up walls to protect ourself but those same walls can keep some good people out too. Isn't it strange -- wanting friends and connections but at the same time we distance ourself and guard ourself. I think many of us knows that feeling who have gone through something like this. I started taking baby steps. Instead of directly jumping into deep conversations or expecting too much, I started by sharing small things about myself to new friends. I'd often share a funny story or some other experience, just to see their reaction and how they responded. Slowly and gradually, as trust began to build up, I felt more comfortable around them and started sharing and revealing my deeper thoughts and feelings. It was really helpful having someone who was patient and understanding, which made me realize not everyone is a bully. Another approach i used and which might me helpful to you guys too was connecting to someone who understands me and had a similar experience of bullying, we started talking regularly. The conversations were not forced, just gradual conversations. Over time, it became easier to open up because there was no fear of being bullied. We both shared our fears and small wins, and it started to help us more than we expected. It felt less isolating. Setting clear boundaries is also really important. I've learnt to say things like "i need some time" or "I am not ready yet". Yes, it felt awkward at first but it was much needed to take care of myself. I think many of us forget and we push our comfort zone just to keep thing smooth with others which is not good at all. When we are honest with ourself and what we need , it helps to build trust over time. And people who respect our boundaries are much more safer to be around with. So how do you navigate friendships after being bullied ? I still find it tricky sometimes. If anyone else deals with the same, I'd love to know how you handle it. For me, it was talking to that one person who understood me. I'm curious what helped others too.