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Giving Respect
We often hear the word respect when we grow up. Our parents reminded us that we have to respect our teachers and older generations. Many also use this word as a demand, like “I am the boss! They must respect me!”.
The word respect is most used and understood by many when they feel deep admiration of someone because of his/her abilities, qualities, or achievements.
There is nothing wrong, and it is easy to respect others who have success stories. But what about everyone else who is still growing and finding their way in the society?
The most important aspect of respect is often forgotten, or less instilled in our culture. That is, giving respect to others regardless of their status and traditions; to those who choose different schools, degrees, professions and come from different background.
The lacking of this type of respect is one of the reasons there are so many relationship problems at work and at home.
At workplace, we often hear comment like: “those people from the other departments don’t know what they are doing!”. Many also feel that certain jobs are not as important as their own job. Lack of respect for each other create stress at workplace, not to mention lost of productivity!
At home, it is easy to criticize or disrespect your family members who do or like something different from you. In addition, the lack of respect often lingers between two generations who have different views due to generation gap.
Give Respect, Earn Respect
Giving respect is an act of acceptance; it comes from our thoughtfulness for the feelings, wishes, rights, or traditions of others, no matter who they are, what they have, or where they come from. Equally important, giving respect allows us to see and appreciate others’ gifts, talents, abilities and contributions. It is no surprise that successful leaders who give respect to each of the team member are able to utilize each individual’s talent(s) to the fullest, build a strong teamwork, and in return, earn full respect and loyalty from the entire team.
Give Respect, Less Judgement
Our nature often judges instead of respecting others because of their differences. The good news is, we can practice and consciously make an effort to look at others’ differences as something to respect. When we choose to give respect and treat each person as unique and special individual, we find that there is less judgement in our relationships.
This kind of respect in fact uncovers one of the secrets of happy, healthy, and lasting relationships. Giving respect to others no matter their achievement status is the most considerate and loving gesture we can give.
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Compare Yourself….
Look around at nature around us. The trees are working their best strengthening their roots and core, standing tall and strong with their luscious leaves. They do their part improving air quality; protecting animals from the heat; and helping reduce storm water run-off.
They don’t compare themselves to the mountains, which provide different weather pattern, as well as food and water supply. Nor they compare themselves to the lakes, which provide habitat to wildlife and other important ecosystem services. They all work together providing many benefits to the environments, animals and humans. Not to mention the astonishing beauty they create!
It is easy with the age of social media to compare ourselves to others. Everyone looks great, polished and happy. You may wonder why you are not as beautiful or as talented as everyone on the social media. You may feel that you don’t measure up.
Remember that each individual is created with unique talent and strength. All you need is to look within your true self to find and nurture that special gifts. Rather than comparing yourself to others and pull you down, let them inspire you to reach “your own” full potential.
This also pertains to parents who, consciously or subconsciously, compare their children to each other, their cousins or other children. The surefire way to put a wall in sibling and cousin relationships is to compare them to each other. Rather, accept and celebrate each child as unique and special individual; and help them realizing their talents and strengths.
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Hills and Valleys
It is so much easier to walk on a flat land. But those journeys full of challenges are the ones strengthen and give us the opportunity to learn, grow, and touch other people’s life.
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Happiness is everywhere
Most of us often get caught up trying to obtain material objects because they are associated with status and happiness. But most material objects, especially those obtained just to impress others, bring only temporary bliss.
True and sustainable happiness comes from within. Allow ourselves to open up and see the beauty in everyday encounters; be thankful for the nature and for what we have; and appreciate simple pleasures such as having a cup of coffee with friends and family.
Happiness is everywhere in the simplest form, if we choose to see it….
