What Is Respect?

Question

In actions? Speech? How can you show respect for you friends, boy/girl friends, family members, ect.?

I understand that you have to earn it and that you have to give it in order to receive it.

The question is, what is it (respect)?

Answer 1

Respect is hard to explain but easy to demonstrate.

For me, it is about remembering that the other person is a human being, entitled to their own dignity, and not existing simply for my benefit.

It's demonstrated by offering courtesy, such as verbal appreciation of tasks done (please and thank you) and by being reasonable in our expectations and demands.

There is also an element of how we conduct ourselves ~ being punctual, paying attention and so on, are all ways in which we can demonstrate our respect for others.

Another important way is demonstrate and show respect is not to make assumptions about what people will think, do, want, etc, but to ask them first. For example, not to simply order strawberry flavour for everyone and then get angry because someone doesn't like it (a small example). Respect would be to ask for the opinions of others, even though we are not bound to accept or act on them.

A tough question, but a good one to think about! Thanks!

Cheers :-)

Answer 2

Respect is a form of politeness which often has to be earned. However sometimes respect is initially granted in some scenarios, such as superiors at work or family members, until something occurs which would force you to no longer grant the customary respect of their position, like an abusive superior or a family member who attacks you.

Answer 3

This is a very broad term. Do it on a case-by-case basis. Ask yourself if what you're thinking about saying/doing is respectful and whether or not you would feel disrespected if this thing was done to you. Just do what you think is right.

I also think everyone should be universally respected. Just because you meet someone new and he or she hasn't done anything to earn your respect doesn't mean that you shouldn't treat them nicely anyway. Respect shouldn't have to be earned, but I think it can be "unearned" sometimes.

Answer 4

That's a tough question to answer. Respect is displayed through action. It requires maturity and awareness of others.

Answer 5

Respect is earned, and it is a two-way street. Never expect respect, and always give it.

Answer 6

Respect is showing someone that they mean something to you and that you trust them. It's why people in Asia bow, not just to say hello, but to show their respect to that person.

Answer 7

You have to earn respect. If you treat people with dignity, and are trustworthy, people will respect you.

Answer 8

The way people listen when they speak, fallow when they lead.