On a practical level respect includes taking someones feelings, needs, thoughts, ideas, wishes and preferences into consideration. It means taking all of these seriously and giving them worth and value. In fact, giving someone respect seems similar to valuing them and their thoughts, feelings, etc. It also includes acknowledging them, listening to them, being truthful with them, and accepting their individuality and idiosyncrasies.
Respect can be shown through behavior and it can also be felt. We can act in ways which are considered respectful, yet we can also feel respect for someone and feel respected by someone. Because it is possible to act in ways that do not reflect how we really feel, the feeling of respect is more important than the behavior without the feeling. When the feeling is there, the behavior will naturally follow.
- asking them how they feel
- validating their feelings
- empathizing with them
- seeking understanding of their feelings
- taking their feelings into consideration
There are several ways I can work on showing and earning Respect, I can practice asking anyone I am talking to how they feel and by empathizing with them, also by trying to be understanding of their feelings.
