Ways to Earn More Respect

In our society, you interact with others every day, and it’s important to be respected. Respect strengthens your relationships and makes others invest in your growth. When people respect you, they admire your abilities, qualities, and accomplishments. But why is respect important? Because we are social beings, and our relationships greatly impact the quality of our lives. When you respect yourself, you demonstrate the behavior you expect from others, which boosts your self-esteem. Here are 8 ways to earn more respect.

Stand Up for What You Believe

People who can politely disagree with others and stand up for themselves are more respected than those who just say what others want to hear. So, if you want others to respect you, make sure you have your own opinion and don’t be afraid to form your own opinion, even if it’s contrary to what others think. While it’s important to stand up for what you believe in, always make sure you respect others when you do so.

Respect What You Say

Trustworthiness and honesty are the cornerstones of respect. Every time you speak honestly or fulfill a commitment, you demonstrate that you have integrity and can be respected. You should strive to fulfill your commitments and even go above and beyond when you can. If you can’t do something, make sure you tell the person so they’re not left in the lurch. After all, if someone is constantly backtracking, it becomes difficult to rely on them, let alone respect them.

Don’t Waste Other People’s Time

We all know that person who is chronically late. Not only is it annoying, it’s also disrespectful. Time is precious to everyone. You can’t save it for later, put it back, or pause it. So, if you have to be somewhere at a specific time, try to be a few minutes early, rather than risk being late. If you’re giving a presentation, be careful not to go over your allotted time. You never know what’s going on in someone else’s life, so make sure you don’t waste their time.

. Listen with the intent to understand

Whether we realize it or not, we often think about how to respond, rather than really listening during a conversation. It is very important to listen with intent so that you can absorb and process what the other person is saying. Also, despite our good intentions, we tend to look for a way to connect. So, we respond with a story like “Me too” or “There was that time.” This can be endearing at times, but it can also come across as selfish. Be aware of this line so that you don’t cross it. Instead, ask more probing questions to make the other person feel important and genuine. They will surely appreciate your interest in their words.

Control your emotions

 

 

Even in the midst of a tense situation, remember the ABCs. Always stay calm. With emotional maturity comes the discipline to control your emotions and reactions. Getting emotional over little things will make others wonder how you would react in more difficult situations. When you complain or allow negative emotions to take over, you may say hurtful and destructive things. So, keep your emotions in check. This will help you avoid embarrassing yourself and ruining potential relationships.

. Acting Respectfully

No matter how boring your roommate’s story about their dog is, avoid the urge to pull out your cell phone. In addition to listening mindfully, your behavior and body language should convey interest and concern. If your roommate complains about how you left the dishes in the sink again, resist the urge to roll your eyes or talk during the conversation. Doing so only creates feelings of disrespect, making you look like a fool. Even if you disagree with someone’s opinions or the situation is uncomfortable, treat the other person the way you want to be treated.

. Don’t Bad-Talk About Others

Perhaps you’re upset that a coworker called you out in front of your boss for being five minutes late in the morning, or that you’re not a fan of your friend’s new boyfriend, it’s best to keep your negative thoughts and reactions to yourself. If appropriate, discuss the issue face-to-face so you can resolve things without causing a mess.

Self-Respect and Gaining Respect from Others

Self-respect is the foundation for gaining respect from others. By standing up for your beliefs, honoring your word, not wasting others’ time, listening honestly, controlling your emotions, acting respectfully, and not speaking badly about others, you can build an image that commands respect and admiration. Remember, respect doesn’t just come from others, it starts from within you. Be the person you want to see in others, and you’ll find that respect comes naturally. Ultimately, respect is the path that will keep you confidently walking toward a brighter, more successful future.