As Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, once said, “Being entirely honest with oneself is a good exercise.” When people come to you for advice, it’s because they trust your honesty and your ability to provide insights that can help them navigate their situation.
If you find yourself frequently being approached for advice or input, it’s a strong sign that you’re highly respected. Remember though, with great respect comes great responsibility – always strive to provide advice that is thoughtful and considerate.
3) People emulate your behavior
Imitation, they say, is the highest form of flattery. But it’s more than just flattery – it’s a sign of respect. When people begin to mirror your actions, habits, or attitudes, it’s often because they admire you and hold you in high esteem.
I’ve seen it happen in my own life. Colleagues starting to adopt my work ethic, friends picking up phrases I commonly use. It’s a subtle but clear sign that they respect me enough to want to emulate certain aspects of who I am.
The famous psychologist Albert Bandura once said, “Learning would be exceedingly laborious, not to mention hazardous if people had to rely solely on the effects of their own actions to inform them what to do.”
We learn by observing and imitating others – so if people are emulating you, take it as a sign of respect. But remember to always strive to set a positive example.
4) They respect your time
Respecting someone’s time is one of the most tangible ways to show respect. In my own experience, when colleagues or friends consistently show up on time for meetings or social events, it’s clear they value and respect my time
When people make an effort not to keep you waiting, return your calls promptly, or honor deadlines, it’s a sign that they value your time and, by extension, value you.
When people respect your time, they’re helping to create a less stressful environment for you. It’s an indicator that they have a high level of respect for you as an individual. Always remember to reciprocate this respect by valuing others’ time as well.
5) They’re not afraid to disagree with you
It may sound counterintuitive, but when people feel comfortable disagreeing with you, it’s often a sign of respect. They see you as someone who can handle differing opinions and healthy debate.
I remember a time when a colleague openly disagreed with me in a team meeting. Instead of feeling disrespected, I appreciated their honesty and their trust in our relationship to withstand the disagreement.
The famed psychologist Carl Jung once said, “Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.”
Differences in opinion can lead to growth and better understanding, both personally and professionally.
If people are not afraid to challenge your ideas from time to time, it’s likely because they respect you and value your relationship enough to be honest with you. It’s essential, however, to foster an environment where everyone feels safe expressing their thoughts.
6) They confide in you
When people confide in you and share personal stories or sensitive information, it’s a clear sign that they trust and respect you. They see you as a person who is understanding, non-judgmental, and capable of handling discretion.
Renowned psychologist Erik Erikson once said, “Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other, and the sooner we learn that, the better for us all.” When people choose to share their struggles or victories with you, it’s because they acknowledge this interdependence and respect you as a part of their circle.
If people around you often confide in you, know that it’s a rare sign of respect. But always remember to uphold their trust by keeping their confidences and providing support when needed.
7) They acknowledge your
achievements
In my own life, I’ve found that when people celebrate your successes and acknowledge your achievements, it’s a strong indicator of respect. They see your efforts and want to validate your accomplishments.
Abraham Maslow, a well-known psychologist famous for creating Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, once said, “What is necessary to change a person is to change his awareness of himself.”
When people acknowledge your achievements, they’re not just celebrating your success; they’re also contributing to your self-perception and self-worth.
If those around you are quick to recognize and appreciate your hard work and achievements, take it as a sign that you hold a respected place in their lives. Be sure to reciprocate this respect by acknowledging and celebrating their accomplishments as well.
8) They give you constructive feedback
Honest, constructive feedback is a gift, albeit sometimes a tough one to receive. It shows that the person cares enough about your growth and progress to share their observations and suggestions with you.
I remember a time when a mentor of mine gave me some particularly hard-to-swallow feedback. It stung, but it was exactly what I needed to hear to improve and grow.
As the famous psychologist B.F. Skinner said, “A failure is not always a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.”
When people offer you constructive criticism, they believe in your capacity to do better and respect your ability to take it on board and improve.
If you’re receiving honest, thoughtful feedback from those around you, it’s a sign they respect you and value your growth. Just remember to accept this feedback graciously and use it as fuel for continual self-improvement.
9) They ask for your help
It might seem counterintuitive, but when people ask you for help, it’s often because they respect you. They see you as someone competent, reliable, and trustworthy.
Psychologist and author Dr. Robert Cialdini explains in his book “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” that asking for help can be a sign of respect and trust. He argued that when we help someone, we invest our time and effort in them, which makes us value them more.
When someone asks for your assistance, don’t simply see it as a burden. Instead, view it as a sign of respect and acknowledgement of your abilities. Just remember to always lend a hand when others need it, too.
10) They respect your boundaries
One of the most meaningful signs of respect I’ve experienced is when people acknowledge and respect my personal boundaries. It shows they value my comfort and individuality.
Famed psychologist and Holocaust survivor Dr. Viktor Frankl once said, “Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and freedom.” When people respect your boundaries, they’re acknowledging your freedom to make choices that best suit your comfort and wellbeing.
If you find that those around you consistently honour your personal boundaries, it’s a strong sign of their respect for you. Be sure to return this respect by acknowledging and honouring their boundaries as well.
