Confucious asked ‘Without feelings of respect, what is there to distinguish men from beasts?’ Self respect is the benchmark upon which our values and morals are shaped. Through self respect we like ourselves because of who we are and not because of what we can or cannot do. It is to have pride and knowledge of one’s own worth, to value one’s self. To have due respect for oneself, one’s character, and one’s conduct. People who lack self respect rarely have respect for others or regard for their property, boundaries, values and morals. Respect is earned, not given. People respect those who respect themselves.
Respect is the cornerstone on which many other attributes are built such as honesty, confidence, and integrity.

Those with self-respect are less prone to regret, blame, guilt, shame, and secretive behaviour. Self-respecting people understand the value of active listening. They know that if people feel understood, then they are more likely to be willing to listen to another person’s point of view. Self-respecting people are willing to work to earn the other person’s respect and trust.

How do you learn to respect yourself? One who has developed self-respect has confidence in themselves and a realistic appreciation of what their skillset are, the challenges they have surmounted and an acceptance of shortcomings. Real self-respect strengthens a persons self worth and reduces reactive behaviour.A sign of self worth is demonstrated in taking care of oneself, others or the environment. It adds general reliability to social interactions. It enables people to work collaboratively, mutually valueing their different contributions and extending dignity and worth with a courteous regard for people’s feelings.

Signs that we have acquired respectful attitudes are:

listening with out interrupting
taking anothers feelings into consideration
keeping an open mind
agreeing to disagree
understand another persons viewpoint
direct communication
acknowledging a persons contribution
not pressuring another person to see things your way

Understanding and practising the Golden Rule of ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you’ essentially tells more about your own character. It shows you recognize that others have feelings, skills, and thoughts that are as valid as yours. Appreciation of the differences between us in views, lifestyles and experiences whilst practising common courtesies creates a level of mutual acceptance. Honoring others for who they are and being inclusive.

Organizations must be clear about the value of respect and not expect values such as respect to evolve or to spring fully formed from the corporate cultureShowing respect to people not only helps them to feel accepted, they are more likely to demonstrate the same behaviour with peers and colleagues. Showing respect, is more about self. How you were raised, having good manners, and knowing how to treat people. It is not necessarily based upon anything the other person has done to earn it or merit it. It just is based on how you carry out your own life. Your own character and the effort invested in learning how to be respectful is soundly rewarded in people respecting you socially and professionally,enabling you to grow a highly regarded reputation.