Respect is needed in the modern world to foster peace and kindness between all people. Treating others with respect shows that you value them as individuals, honoring their personal rights and dignity. In the absence of respect, there is humiliation, contempt, dishonesty, bullying, and self-hate.
A respectful relationship is a selfless relationship that can handle criticism and learn to forgive. At its heart, respect makes the world a better place, and that is why I’ve listed five easy ways to be a respectful person (below), just in case you need further guidance.
Practice Self-Respect
If you cannot extend yourself respect and courtesy, you certainly cannot express that to others. If you’re thinking something along the lines of, “I’m selfish if I don’t spend all my time helping other people,” reframe that thought into this, “By allowing time to myself, I can take better care of other people.”
Follow The Golden Rule
I cannot say it enough: treat others as you wish to be treated. It is important to remember that each individual has as much worth as you do, and just because you believe in something, does not mean that everyone else is obligated to believe that same thing. No matter what your own beliefs are, intolerance, prejudice, and discrimination are always disrespectful.
Eliminate Distractions
We live in a world full of distractions. Mobile phones, computers, televisions, etc. can tune us out from others. It is important to pay attention when others are speaking by eliminating these distractions around us. More often than not, our minds will wander if we become distracted. A distracted person could seem disrespectful to others. If you find that your mind has wandered, ask the person you are speaking with to repeat what they just said, so that you can be actively involved again in the conversation.
Express Yourself Honestly
Being honest with your thoughts and how you truly feel about something not only shows respect to others, but it also gives you credibility so that others will respect you too.
Be Reliable
If you commit to something, come through on your end of the deal. Being reliable shows respect for people’s time, and shows that you’re making a special effort to be there for them.
For more information on how to practice respect, or if you’d like to book a 2-hour complimentary coaching session with me, please email me at info@paulagalli.com.
I also invite you to check out my book ‘Weighing Love,’ which was written with the intention to help anyone who is dealing with eating disorders/disordered eating, self-esteem issues, body image issues, and negative thoughts, or for anyone who is trying to reach touch with their authentic self.
Xo Paula
