Being loved is great, but being respected? That’s a whole new level of character acknowledgment. It’s a testament to your integrity, your leadership, and your values.

Respect isn’t something that can be demanded or bought, it has to be earned. And often, you may not even realize how much you’ve garnered over time.

Let’s get started. 

1) People seek your advice

Everybody knows someone whose advice they value above all others.

This person usually has a balanced perspective, a calm demeanor, and a knack for making sense out of complex situations. Often, this person is highly respected.

Being sought out for advice is a clear sign of respect, according to psychology. It’s an indication that people value your thoughts and trust your judgement.

It’s also a sign that you actually listen to their problems and offer empathetic solutions. 

Carl Rogers, a pioneering psychologist in humanistic psychology, emphasized the importance of being genuinely empathetic and understanding in relationships. He said:

“When someone really hears you without passing judgment on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mold you, it feels damn good.”

This reflects why people seek advice from those they respect. It’s the non-judgmental, empathetic approach that makes people feel safe and understood, fostering trust and respect in relationships.

2) You’re included in important conversations

I’ve learned over time that being included in critical discussions is not just about being in the right place at the right time. It’s a reflection of how much my opinions are valued and respected.

Remember that time when my company was going through a significant overhaul? I was surprised when I was called into the boardroom. The higher-ups wanted my input on the new strategic direction. That’s when I knew I was truly respected.

Being included in pivotal conversations means that people trust your ability to choose growth over safety, to make tough decisions, and to overcome fears. It’s a clear sign of respect if your voice is heard during these crucial moments.

3) Your flaws are accepted

This one is a bit humbling, but it’s true. We all have flaws – I certainly do. And I’ve realized, the people who respect me the most are those who accept me, flaws and all.

I remember when I messed up a big project at work. Instead of being met with criticism or blame, my team rallied around me. They understood that everyone makes mistakes, and it was how I bounced back that mattered most.

As the influential psychologist Carl Jung said, “I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.”

Being respected doesn’t mean you’re perfect. It means your strengths are celebrated and your weaknesses are accepted, because people understand that it’s the combination of the two that makes you who you are.

If people are embracing your imperfections just as much as your accomplishments, you can rest assured that you have their respect.

4) People trust you with their problems

Trust isn’t handed out freely; it’s earned. And one of the most potent indicators of respect is when people confide in you about their personal issues or struggles. I’ve had friends and colleagues share their deepest concerns with me, and it’s always a humbling experience.

As the 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 open up to you about their problems, it means they trust your discretion, your empathy, and your wisdom. They believe that you won’t judge them and instead will offer support or guidance.

5) You’re often ignored

This one might sound counterintuitive, but hear me out.

Being ignored doesn’t always equate to disrespect. Quite the contrary, in certain scenarios, it can be a sign of immense regard.

Take for instance when you’re in a group setting. If people are comfortable enough to carry on without constantly seeking your approval or feedback, it means they respect your judgment. They trust that if something was amiss, you’d speak up.

The famous psychologist Sigmund Freud once said, “Most people do not really want freedom because freedom involves responsibility, and most people are frightened of responsibility.”

When you’re trusted with the freedom to intervene when necessary, it means people respect your responsibility and discernment. So if you notice you’re often “ignored,” it might just be because you’re highly respected.

6) You’re often challenged

Another sign that you’re highly respected is when people feel comfortable enough to challenge you. This might seem strange at first, but it’s true.

If someone respects you, they trust that you can handle a debate or a difference of opinion. They believe in your capacity to engage in a constructive dialogue without taking it personally.

Being challenged is an opportunity for growth and learning. It’s a testament to your resilience and your ability to navigate obstacles. So if people often disagree with you or question your ideas, take it as a sign of their respect for your intellect and character.

7) You’re given space to grow

Respect can often be seen in the freedom you are given. I’ve noticed throughout my career that the people who respected me the most were those who encouraged my growth, even if it meant making mistakes along the way.

When individuals trust you to learn and grow at your own pace, they show their respect for your abilities and potential. They understand that everyone stumbles, but they believe in your capacity to rise every time you fall.

If you find yourself in an environment where you’re given room to grow and make mistakes without fear of harsh judgement, know that you are highly respected.

8) You’re held to high standards

Sometimes, respect comes in the form of high expectations.

It’s not always easy to meet these expectations, and it can sometimes feel overwhelming. But I’ve realized that when people hold me to high standards, it’s because they respect my abilities and see my potential.

Being held to high standards means that people believe you can rise to the challenge. They respect your ability to adapt, grow, and surpass even your own expectations. It’s raw and honest, but it’s a clear sign of respect.

If you find yourself constantly being pushed to achieve more and do better, it’s likely because you are highly respected.

9) You’re not always the center of attention

This might seem counterintuitive, but being respected doesn’t always equate to being the center of attention.

In fact, being always in the spotlight can sometimes mean that people are more interested in your entertainment value rather than your worth as an individual.

When you’re respected, people value your authenticity and genuine nature. They don’t need you to put on a show or be someone you’re not.

If you find yourself often blending into the background while still being acknowledged for your contributions, it’s likely because you’re highly respected.

10) People show genuine interest in your life

One of the most heartwarming signs of respect I’ve experienced is when people show authentic interest in my life – not just my accomplishments or my work, but my personal interests, my family, and my dreams.

The respected psychologist Erik Erikson once said, “In the social jungle of human existence, there is no feeling of being alive without a sense of identity.”

When people respect you, they’re interested in understanding your identity beyond your professional or public persona. They value your individuality and want to know more about what makes you, you.

If you notice people asking about your weekend plans, your family, or your hobbies with genuine interest and attention, it’s a sign that you’re highly respected.