No matter what you might’ve heard, respect comes from more than simply big gestures or heroic moments. Sometimes, it’s the little things you do every day that make the biggest difference. Let’s look at 18 subtle yet effective behaviors that can help you earn more respect from everyone around you, whether you’re talking with neighbors or sitting in a meeting.
Listen Up
If you want to be respected, you’ll have to start by really listening. When you listen more than you talk, people notice because it shows that you value what they have to say, and that makes them feel important. Best of all, you might learn something new, so make sure you give people your full attention the next time someone’s talking.
Keep Your Promises
When you say you’re going to do something, do it. People really respect a person who sticks to their word, and it doesn’t matter if it’s returning a borrowed book or finishing a project on time because sticking to your commitments shows you’re reliable and trustworthy. It’s as simple as that.
Say Thanks
A simple “thank you” can go a long way, and showing gratitude for even the little things lets people know you don’t take them for granted. When you recognize other people’s efforts, no matter what they are, they’ll feel as though you care about them. It’ll also make your day and theirs a bit brighter.
Small Kindnesses
Similarly, don’t forget to reciprocate those little acts of kindness because they can make a big difference. They show you’re thoughtful and considerate, which are two qualities that everyone respects. It’ll just take a few seconds of your time, but it’ll prove to the world that you’re someone who looks out for others and enjoys helping.
Eye Contact Matters
When you’re talking to someone, you have to keep eye contact because it shows you’re engaged and interested. Better yet, maintaining steady eye contact can also make you appear more confident and assertive, not just attentive. It’s pretty easy, and it’ll improve your conversations without you needing to say a word.
Value Everyone’s Time
Most people know that being on time is polite, yet not all of us do it. It’s a sign you respect other people’s schedules as much as your own, meaning that you should always show up on time for all of your commitments. People will definitely notice and respect you for it. If you are going to be late, make sure you let the other people know with plenty of warning.
Own Your Mistakes
We all mess up sometimes, and that’s okay. Admitting you’re wrong is a sign of strength instead of weakness, and owning your mistakes shows you’re honest. Don’t be afraid to say, “My bad,” when things go sideways, especially since being so open will help you build trust with other people while also encouraging others to feel safe to admit their own mistakes.
Stay Out of the Gossip
Keeping clear of gossip means you respect others enough not to talk behind their backs, and it also keeps you out of drama. When people know you’re not a gossip, they’ll trust and respect you more. Steering clear of gossip demonstrates your integrity and maturity, making your peers see you as both a reliable and trustworthy person.
Dress the Part
Wearing clothes that fit the occasion shows you take yourself and the event seriously, although that doesn’t mean you have to be fancy. You just need to be appropriate. Put a little into how you present yourself so others see you in a good way, which will improve your professional image and personal relationships.
Compliment Sincerely
Giving someone a genuine compliment is nice for them, and it makes you look good, too. Of course, that doesn’t mean you should overwhelm them, but recognizing their efforts or achievements shows you’re kind-hearted. People respect those who can give praise freely and sincerely.
Keep It Cool
When things are tense, a calm voice can be incredibly reassuring and suggests you’re in control. After all, you want to be that person who’s not easily rattled because it naturally draws respect from those around you, and it can also de-escalate situations. There’s no downside to it at all.
Be Fair
Speaking of disagreements, you should be fair and unbiased when they pop up so that everyone knows you respect all viewpoints. They’ll see you positively because you’re not playing favorites and handling conflicts with grace. As such, it’ll be easier for them to come to you with their issues, knowing they’ll receive a fair hearing.
Practice Patience
Patience is a virtue, and that’s why people respect it. Show other people that you can wait calmly for your turn or for others to finish, and then they’ll think you’ve got great self-control. This kind of patience is particularly important with everything being so fast today, where the ability to remain composed is as rare as it is valued.
Confidence without Cockiness
There’s a sweet spot between being confident and arrogant that you need to find. If you show you’re sure of yourself but still down to earth, then you’ll find people respect you more for it, and they’ll also think you’re more approachable. Knowing the balance between the two makes you a self-assured leader who’s also grounded, and everyone loves that.
Respect Boundaries
Everyone has their boundaries, whether during conversations or with their personal space, and you should be aware of them. Other people will think highly of you when you’re being considerate and show care for their comfort. After all, how else can you build strong relationships if the other person doesn’t feel valued?
Laugh a Little
A good sense of humor, especially when you can laugh at yourself, makes you pretty easy to respect. It shows you’re human and can take life’s ups and downs in your stride. If you can laugh at your own expense, you’ll also relieve some tension and make things a lot friendlier for everybody.
Stay Humble
Humility is a quiet way to shine. Even if you’re an absolute expert at what you do, showing that you don’t know it all makes others respect and appreciate your down-to-earth attitude. Plus, being humble invites collaboration and learning, showing you’re open to new ideas and perspectives.
Aim to Improve
Likewise, showing you’re interested in self-improvement demonstrates ambition and dedication. It means you know you’re not perfect, and this has more of an impact than you might realize. Other people will be inspired to see you trying hard to do better, making them more likely to respect you.
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