I have been intrigued by recent
discussions in the media about respect.
Everyone from religious leaders to football managers have been asking
(almost demanding) others to show them respect.
At work and in the streets, we hear people complaining that they are not
being respected. Some seem to think this
allows them to steal from or even knife someone.
I find all this confusing.
Respect is a feeling which each
of us has.
It is a response to something
someone does or says. It is not
something we should demand, as if it were a right.
I do believe that we should
respect other people and their views.
This is a personal choice. I
believe that because it’s a useful belief.
If I respect others, I will understand their views, their position
better.
I do not expect their
respect. Perhaps I will earn
their respect, but I have no right to expect it.
So if you see yourself as a
leader in any sense (in your business, your community, even your family) your
actions and behaviour will determine whether you are respected. It’s really as simple as that.
And if you feel a lack of respect – remember that is YOUR
feeling. You do not have to respond in
that way. So guard YOUR self-respect and
remember it is a gift that firstly YOU can give.
Don’t just take my word for it.
Ghandi said, “They cannot take away our self respect if
we do not give it to them”.
And less well known for his philosophy
on life, but Bruce Willis sang:
If you disrespect everybody
That you run into
How in the world do you think
Anybody ‘sposed to respect you
Respect yourself.
