Everyone wants to feel valued and respected by others. It’s a fundamental human need. But how can you really tell if someone thinks highly of you?

Well, there are subtle signs that can tip you off. It’s not always about the big gestures or flattering compliments.

This is about recognising the small details in people’s behaviour that indicate their true feelings towards you.

In this article, I’ll share with you 8 signs that another person thinks highly of you. Not only will these insights help you feel more confident, but they’ll also allow you to build stronger, more meaningful relationships.

1) They listen to you

One of the most underrated signs of respect is genuine listening.

It’s easy for someone to nod along while you’re talking, but are they really hearing you? Or are they just waiting for their turn to speak?

A person who thinks highly of you will truly listen. They’ll engage with what you’re saying, ask follow-up questions, and remember details from your past conversations.

This kind of active listening demonstrates that they value your thoughts and opinions. It’s a clear sign that they hold you in high regard.

So next time you’re in conversation, pay attention. If they’re really listening, chances are they think quite highly of you.

2) They trust your judgment

Trust is a huge indicator that someone respects and values you highly.

Let me share a personal example. I have a friend, let’s call her Jane. Jane and I have known each other for years. Whenever she’s faced with a major decision, whether it’s about her career or personal life, she often comes to me for advice.

Now, Jane is no pushover. She’s independent and highly intelligent. But the fact that she seeks out my opinion, and often follows my advice, shows me that she values my judgment and thinks highly of me.

When someone trusts you enough to take your words into consideration when making decisions, it’s a clear sign they hold you in high esteem.

3) They value your time

Time is one of our most precious resources. How people choose to spend their time can tell you a lot about who they value.

If someone frequently makes time for you, even when they are busy, it’s a strong indicator that they think highly of you. They prioritize your relationship and value the time spent with you.

Interestingly, a study from the University of Maryland found that couples who spend quality time together are more likely to have a stronger and more satisfying relationship.

This principle isn’t limited to romantic relationships, though. It applies to friendships, family relationships, and professional relationships too. If they’re making time for you, it’s because they appreciate you and your company.

4) They show you respect

Respect is a fundamental sign that someone thinks highly of you. This can be shown in different ways, from listening to your viewpoints without interruption, recognizing and appreciating your skills and achievements, to speaking to you in a courteous manner.

A person who respects you will not belittle you, dismiss your ideas, or treat you in a condescending manner. Instead, they will value your input, even if they disagree with you.

If you notice someone treating you with consistent respect and dignity, it’s a solid sign they hold a high opinion of you.

5) They remember the little things

It’s one thing to remember birthdays or anniversaries, but when someone recalls smaller, more personal details about you, it shows that they truly care and think highly of you.

Maybe they remember your favorite book that you mentioned in passing, or they recall a story you told them months ago. These little things might seem insignificant, but remembering them requires effort and emotional investment.

When someone shows this level of attention to detail, it’s because you matter to them. It’s a heartwarming sign that they hold you in high regard.

6) They defend you

It’s not always easy to stand up for someone, especially when they’re not around. It requires a certain level of loyalty and respect.

I remember when I was unfairly criticized in a group chat that I wasn’t part of. A close friend of mine was in that group and he immediately stepped in to defend me. He could have chosen to stay silent or simply agree with the others, but he didn’t.

He spoke up because he believed in me and my character, even when it was easier to remain quiet. His actions showed me that he truly thought highly of me.

If someone is willing to defend you in your absence, it’s a clear indicator that they respect you and think highly of you.

7) They value your opinion

When someone consistently asks for your thoughts or feedback, it’s a strong sign that they think highly of you. They respect your perspective and believe that you have valuable insights to offer.

This goes beyond merely asking for advice. It’s about genuinely considering your viewpoint and often incorporating it into their actions or decisions.

If they frequently seek your opinion and value what you have to say, it’s because they regard you as a person of worth and importance in their life.

8) They genuinely celebrate your successes

Perhaps one of the most telling signs that someone thinks highly of you is when they celebrate your successes as if they were their own.

They’re thrilled when you achieve your goals or when something good happens to you. They don’t downplay your accomplishments or show signs of envy. Instead, they are genuinely happy for you and often express their pride in your achievements.

This kind of selfless joy in your success speaks volumes about their respect for you and their high opinion of you. It’s a beautiful demonstration of their esteem and an affirmation that you truly matter to them.

Final thoughts: It’s about mutual respect

When all is said and done, the signs that someone thinks highly of you boil down to one fundamental element: respect.

Respect is the cornerstone of every meaningful relationship. It’s the soil in which appreciation, esteem, and admiration grow.

Famed philosopher Immanuel Kant once said, “In law a man is guilty when he violates the rights of others. In ethics, he is guilty if he only thinks of doing so.” This underscores the importance of our thoughts and intentions towards others.

If someone genuinely respects you, they’ll show it through their actions, their words, and even their thoughts. They’ll value your time, remember the little things about you, defend you in your absence, and celebrate your successes.

While these signs are not exhaustive or foolproof, they offer an insightful glimpse into how someone could be perceiving you.

So next time you interact with someone, take a moment to observe these signs. You might be surprised to find how highly others think of you. And who knows? It might just make your day a little brighter.