The Anatomy Of Respect

I have discovered that people earn RESPECT in life in two main ways; the VALUE they offer and/or the EXAMPLE they set. The value-way of earning respect from others manifests in two ways:

 1. KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS: wielding expertise or competence that people need and demand. Being good at what you do is a sure path to earning respect from others. 

2. POWER/RESOURCES: having money or holding a position of authority or influence. People generally shower respect on people who have power to change their circumstance either by releasing cash or making a decision. 

However, respect often earned via the latter is fickle and dissipates when the resources run out. 

The example way of earning respect also manifests in two ways: 

1. ACHIEVEMENT: when someone accrues a lifetime of accomplishments they naturally command public respect. People respect those who have performed beyond the normal. They become models of success for others. 

2. CHARACTER/BEHAVIOR: earning respect by character or behavior is probably the most enduring pathway to respect. When a person conducts herself well, others look up to her and hold her up as a paragon to be emulated. 

You want to be respected in this life? You can consider these thoughts.

Written By: Jeremiah Buabeng