What Does it Mean to Have Respect for Yourself?

Respect is highly valued in our society. We show others respect in how we treat them when they are with us and how we speak of them when they are not. While it can be natural to show respect to someone you admire, it is not always as easy to transfer the same respect to yourself. Learn what it means to have self-respect by taking a good look at your attitude, actions and the comments you make about yourself.

Hold On to Your Values

Realizing that your values and ideas have worth is important when it comes to having respect for yourself. When you believe in yourself and understand that your point of view is valuable you will be more likely to follow your convictions and lead the life of your choosing. On the other hand, if you constantly worry about what others think, you will be more likely to succumb to others' ideas of what is important. Brainstorm and make a list of the things that are important to you and use that list as a guide for decision making. For instance, if spending quality time with your children as a stay at home mom is important to you, write it down and stick to your conviction if anyone questions your choice to not hold a traditional job.

Accept Compliments

The way you accept compliments is reflective of the amount of respect you have for yourself. Many people struggle accepting compliments. In an effort to not come across as arrogant or self-involved, people try to deflect compliments by making self-degrading statements. Display your value when someone compliments you by looking them in the eye and saying "thank you" without offering further explanation. For instance, if someone compliments your blouse, do not feel the need to inform them that you bought it on sale. Accept the compliment, say "thank you" and move on.

Self-Care

How you carry yourself readily displays your amount of self-respect. Show you have respect for yourself through your appearance by grooming yourself and wearing flattering clothing. A person with uncombed hair and over sized sweats is not as likely to think as highly of herself as someone who takes the time to make her hair presentable and wear clothes that fit. Keep in mind that your motivation in how you dress should be to feel good about yourself rather to impress others. If you dress for others, you will find yourself with a deflated ego the moment you encounter someone who does not appreciate your sense of style.

Behavior

While no one should be consumed by what others think of him, a certain standard of behavior should be kept when you have respect for yourself. In other words, if you have respect for yourself, chances are that others will respect you as well. Respect yourself through your behavior by displaying self control. Do not burp or fart in public. Avoid foul language and crude jokes and do not gossip about others.

References

• Self Respect