Let’s talk respect.
You see, respect is something we all covet, but it’s not always easy to gauge if we’ve earned it. It’s not like people walk around with ‘respect-o-meters’ to measure your standing in their eyes.
However, psychology provides some pretty clear indicators that you’re more respected than the average person. And hey, I bet you’ve noticed some of these signs without even realizing what they meant.
Let’s get started.
1) People seek your opinion
I’m sure you’ve been in this situation before. You’re in a group discussion and everyone seems to be throwing in their two cents. But then, there’s that moment when all eyes turn towards you. The room quiets down, and it’s clear – they want to know what you think.
Now that’s respect.
Psychology tells us that when people value your opinion, it’s a clear sign of respect. They see you as someone with wisdom, insight or experience – someone whose judgement holds weight.
Respect isn’t always about being the loudest or most dominant person. It’s about having an influence that matters when it counts. And if people are often eager to hear your take on things, then odds are you’re more respected than the average person.
But remember, with great respect comes great responsibility. So make sure to provide thoughtful and considerate responses when people seek your opinion.
2) Respect through reciprocation
Respect is a two-way street. You give some, you get some. It’s as simple as that. But let’s dig a bit deeper.
I remember, back in my college days, I had this group of friends who would always include me in their decisions. Whether it was deciding on a place to eat, planning a weekend trip, or even picking a movie for our weekly movie night, they always made sure my voice was heard.
At first, I didn’t think much of it. But then I realized – they were reciprocating the respect I had shown them. They valued my input because I had always valued theirs.
Psychology backs this up. When people actively seek your input and involve you in their decisions, that’s a big sign of respect. They show you that they consider your perspective important and worth considering.
3) They’re all ears
There’s nothing like a good heart-to-heart chat. But here’s the catch – it requires both parties to actively listen.
Active listening is a powerful sign of respect. It shows that the person truly values what you have to say and is making an effort to understand your viewpoint.
Now, here’s something interesting – did you know that according to a study published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, active listening can even increase feelings of social bonding and personal self-esteem?
When you’re speaking and notice people giving you their undivided attention, remember that it’s probably because they respect you. And if this happens more often than not, then you’re likely far more respected than the average person.
4) They respect your time
Time is one of our most precious resources. We can’t get it back once it’s gone. And you know what? People who respect you understand this.
They won’t keep you waiting without a good reason, they’ll show up on time for meetings and appointments, and they’ll avoid interruptions when you’re busy. They understand that your time is valuable and should be respected.
When people consistently respect your time, it’s a clear sign that they value you and hold you in high regard. So if you rarely find yourself waiting around or being unnecessarily disturbed, congratulations! You’re likely far more respected than the average person.
5) They’re open to your feedback
Let’s be honest, feedback can be a hard pill to swallow. It requires humility, openness, and a willingness to change. But those who respect you, they welcome your feedback.
Whether it’s about their work performance, personal habits or even their choice of outfit, if they’re asking for your opinion and taking it on board, that’s respect right there. They trust your judgement and are willing to learn from you.
When someone sincerely asks for your thoughts and genuinely considers them, take it as a sign of respect. And if this is a regular occurrence, then you’re probably far more respected than the average person.
6) They trust you with their vulnerabilities
Trust is the cornerstone of any relationship, be it personal or professional. And a significant part of that trust is the willingness to share vulnerabilities.
When someone opens up to you about their fears, insecurities, or weaknesses, it’s a clear sign of respect. They trust you enough to show you their not-so-perfect side, believing you won’t use it against them.
This level of trust and respect doesn’t come easy. It’s a testament to your character and the safe space you provide for others. So if people often confide in you, remember they’re not only trusting you with their secrets but also respecting you more than the average person.
7) They value your boundaries
Boundaries are the invisible lines we draw to protect our mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. When people respect these boundaries, they respect us.
I recall setting a boundary with a friend about not discussing work issues during our weekend hangouts. At first, I was worried about how he’d react, but to my surprise, he readily agreed. Since then, our weekends have been a work-free zone.
Respecting someone’s boundaries shows that you value their wellbeing over your convenience. It’s a high form of respect. So, if you find that people often respect your boundaries without making a fuss, you’re likely far more respected than the average person.
8) They challenge you
Now, this might seem a bit odd. After all, isn’t respect about agreeing with and supporting someone? Well, not always.
You see, when people respect you, they also respect your ability to handle different viewpoints and constructive criticism. They’re not afraid to challenge your ideas and push you to think outside the box.
This kind of intellectual challenge isn’t about undermining your authority or belittling you. It’s about fostering growth, sparking innovation, and facilitating learning.
If you find people aren’t always nodding along with everything you say but rather engage in healthy debates with you, take it as a sign of respect. And if this is a regular occurrence, then you’re likely far more respected than the average person.
9) They celebrate your achievements
Achievements, big or small, are milestones in our lives. When people celebrate these milestones with you, it’s a clear sign of respect.
They acknowledge your hard work, appreciate your success, and are genuinely happy for you. There’s no envy or malice, just pure admiration and respect for what you’ve accomplished.
Whether it’s a promotion at work, completing a marathon, or even mastering a new recipe, if people often celebrate your achievements with you, it shows they respect you. And if this is a frequent occurrence, then you’re likely far more respected than the average person.
10) They show you kindness and empathy
At the end of the day, the most profound sign of respect is kindness and empathy.
When people treat you with kindness, when they empathize with your experiences and feelings, it shows that they respect you as a human being. They value your happiness, understand your struggles, and are willing to stand by you through thick and thin.
This kind of respect transcends titles, achievements, and social standing. It’s about seeing and valuing the person behind all that.
Final thoughts: It’s about authenticity
When it comes to earning respect, there’s really no shortcut or magic formula. It’s about authenticity.
Authenticity is the ability to show up as your real, unfiltered self, to be honest in your interactions, and to treat others with kindness and empathy. It’s about being true to your values and standing up for what you believe in.
Respect is often a reflection of how authentic we are in our relationships. People gravitate towards and respect those who are genuine, transparent, and true to their word.
So if you’re seeing these signs of respect in your life, it’s likely a testament to your authenticity. And remember, respect isn’t something that can be demanded—it’s earned.
As the saying goes, “Respect is like a mirror. The more you show it to other people, the more they will reflect it back.” So continue being the authentic you, and respect will naturally follow.
