What is your definition of respect?

Here is one definition of respect I got from Compact Oxford English Dictionary;

• noun 1 a feeling of admiration for someone because of their qualities or achievements.

I do not like this definition. If you observe carefully this seems to be the only type of respect we share in the modern society.

How come we can’t show respect… period. Regardless of the other person’s qualities or achievements.

We live in times where people feel like they need to do something to deserve respect. As if we are not good enough the way we are.

So we let other people become judges of us and we become judges of others.

To be fair, certain people tend to command more respect than others. I don’t think there is anything wrong with that per se, we should admire people who go the extra mile.

The issue comes when we feel we deserve little or no respect simply because we do not measure up to expectations.

How Do You Show Respect?

You’d be surprised how often showing a little respect to someone will change their attitude towards you and even (this is important!) towards themselves.

Have you ever felt like you wanted more responsibility to be given to you at home or at work? Like you could do more than people seem to think you’re capable of?

You can be sure there are other people out there who feel underestimated. If you are a boss trying finding them at your work place… you may just find your next superstar!

Listening is another way we can show respect to another person. By hearing someone out we are acknowledge them and the importance of who they are.

You do not have to agree with their opinion. You can only accept the fact that you can control their mind and thus accept the fact that they’re different from you.

Ironically, when you do this you will find people will be more open to you. You will be surprised at how much more influence you will have in your personal and professional lives.

A little bit of contradiction…

There are times when I choose  not to follow any rules as far as respect is concerned.

When I feel I’m being blatanly disrespected I just according to my mood at that moment.

I’m not saying it’s the right thing to do but I can’t be bothered with people who do not show respect for ME!

I never said I was perfect…

So finally, I think all of us have a different definitions of respect.

Whatever your believes are, you’ll probably agree that it is important to give as much to others as you want to be given to you.

In other words do onto others as you want to be done onto you, my friend.

I love you too! ; )