We often hear words like: "respect is earned not forced"
"Respect is reciprocal." But somehow, we never really practice what respect is and what it isn't. We are all familiar with the common forms of respect: greetings, not talking back at elders, running errands, and the rest. All these can be seen as forms of respect. But for the purpose of this post, were are going to be looking at what respect is and what it isn't as it relates to kindness.
Respect is simply acknowledging the fact that there are boundaries in friendships and every human relationship, and you should act accordingly.
Respect is not being over-familiar or controlling. Healthy boundaries should exist between familiar people. You don't need to manage another person's life or give unsolicited opinions, or project your kind of life onto other people just because you think your perspective about certain things is always right, and the others' perspective are wrong and invalid.
You don't need to agree with someone before you can respect them, respecting people means honouring their choices, listening to their own perspective on things without making them feel their opinion is not valid. Respect is valuing people's thoughts even when you completely disagree. Giving people the chance to also stand out even when you're the head or leader of any organisation.
Respect is not manipulation You can be familiar in a way that shows you value the other person even when you're the smartest.
Respect is becoming a better version of yourself. When you strive to become a better person, you impact lives positively because you now keep to your word, show up on time, choose discipline. When you become a better version, you stop draining people because you have healed from your past and mistakes. You have become self-aware. You have attained some level of growth. You have become accountable. People around you get to breathe, and relationships feel lighter.
Respect is acknowledging that everyone is important and valuable, and that you're not better than anyone else. knowing this will always remind you that even though you're in a better position than others, your subordinates deserve as much respect as you would give to a person in a higher position.
That wheel-barrow pusher deserves respect, an uneducated market woman deserves respect, someone you're currently rendering help to deserves respect, a food seller on the street, and even the beggars on the street deserve the same respect you would give to your boss or a higher authority. The list is endless. Respect is treating people the same, whether they're your friends or strangers.
Again, respect is knowing that everyone is fighting a different life battle, and that you should be kind in your dealing with people.
Respect is being a safe place for people to confide in without fear of being judged.
I hope you have a great week ahead!
