How To Show Respect

Yearning for respect is a distinct human characteristic. Irrespective of our age, occupation or capacity, we always expect respect from every person we come across. With whomever we deal, we obviously expect respect. We may part away with our material possessions but it is difficult indeed to do away with the respect we get. But in order to get respect, we must also show respect to every person we come across.

Showing respect is directly acknowledging a person’s presence. It is a reflection of one’s importance. Showing respect immediately satiates the other person’s urge for self-recognition. But what does showing respect mean? What do we have to do if we want to show respect?

Simple gestures and body language

Showing respect does not mean that you always bow down to the person. Small gestures and suggestive body language can be enough to show respect. Even the bigger acts of showing respect starts with these smaller gestures. Some of these are very common but effective indicators to show that you respect the person.

· Smile: A pleasant smile immediately after seeing a person face to face conveys respect. A smile is a precursor to further respectful behavior. A warm smile sends a positive and respectful signal to the other person.

· Nodding: Nodding head when you come across someone is a sure sign of showing respect. Generally, when we cross someone, but have less time to interact, nodding head acknowledges that you respect the person.

· Handshake: A firm and warm handshake signifies that you respect the other person with whom you shake hand. Your grip and accompanying smile on your face can sufficiently convey the feeling of respect.

· Greeting: Saying ‘Hi’, ‘Hello’ or ‘Good morning’ is a verbal representation of respect. Whether you are directly meeting the person or conversing on telephone, simple verbal greetings are effective in sending the respect across.

· Getting up: Getting up from your sit whenever a person, especially a woman, enters the room, shows that you respect the person.

· Listening patiently: Whenever a person is telling you something from his heart, listen carefully, even at times when you are not much interested in the other persons’ affairs. Lending a patient ear is symbolic of showing respect.

· Keeping promise: You must keep the word that you give to someone. It signifies respect and values integrity of the person.

· Be punctual: Being punctual is valuing the time of the other person as well as yours. It shows that you respect his schedules as well.

These gestures, though very common, will need alterations to suit the age and our relation with the person. Most of these are sure to work in showing respect to every individual. Some other additional ways of showing respect must be adopted as per the place and situation. We are constantly surrounded by the people wherever we live or go. We must learn to show respect towards the people and other living beings around us.

· Showing respect to your family members: You can show respect towards your family members by valuing each member’s contribution. Family members will feel respected if they are given freedom to express their views and choices.

· Showing Respect to your neighbors: Living amicably in a society needs showing respect to your neighbors. This can be done by co-operating with them in keeping your surroundings neat and helping them in whatever way possible.

· Showing respect as a citizen towards society: Try to help each other to uplift of all strata of society and make it a better place to live.

· Showing Respect at workplace: Pay regards and use appropriate salutations to address your colleagues. Appreciate them for their co-operation and guidance.

· Showing respect towards animals and environment: Treat your pets and other animals with dignity. Do not harm them anyway. Take care of your ecology to sustain it for long.

Respecting oneself

Good people always show respect even towards the things that they use in their life. Often, what we neglect is respecting ourselves. You shall never forget to respect yourself. You can do this by maintaining a good health, a positive attitude and a sense of gratitude. In fact, if you respect yourself, you will obviously respect everything and every person around you.

It is also important to know that until you give or sow respect to others there is no way you can get the respect for yourself. Just like charity starts at home, you need to imbibe the positive qualities in yourself before you can expect it from other. It is not only important to show respect but also show it in the right manner so that person in front should be able to see the values you hold in your life.

Picture-Arno Arno