Ever been in a room and noticed that one person everyone seems to gravitate towards? The one who radiates respect and commands attention without even trying?

It might seem like a secret art, but the reality is that anyone can learn these habits and garner respect in return.

It’s all about the way we interact with, and acknowledge those around us.

Let’s delve into this topic and highlight some habits that you should try if you want to be respected in life.

1) Practice active listening

You know that person who seems to just get you? Who makes you feel heard and understood?

Active listening is about more than just hearing. It’s about showing that you genuinely care about what the other person has to say.

It’s about putting your smartphone away, making eye contact, and really focusing on the conversation at hand.

This doesn’t mean you have to agree with everything they say. But by showing that you value their opinions and perspectives, you’re showing them respect.

2) Show empathy

Now, empathy is another habit that I’ve found to be incredibly effective in earning respect.

Early in my career, I used to think that being stern and authoritative was the key to gaining respect. But it didn’t take long for me to realize that this was far from the truth.

I remember a time when one of my team members was underperforming. Instead of reprimanding them as I would have done in the past, I chose to approach them with empathy. I asked if everything was okay and if there was anything they were struggling with.

Turns out, they were going through a tough time personally. By showing understanding and offering support, I was able to help them navigate through their challenges.

In return, not only did their performance improve, but they also showed me a level of respect that I hadn’t experienced before.

3) Be consistent

Consistency is another key habit when it comes to earning respect.

Think about it. Would you trust or respect someone who keeps changing their stance or breaking their promises? Probably not.

Being consistent means sticking to your word and following through with your actions. It shows that you’re reliable and trustworthy – two qualities that people highly respect.

Let’s take punctuality, for example. If you consistently show up on time for meetings or events, it shows that you respect others’ time and can be relied upon.

Be the person who delivers on their promises and maintains their standards, regardless of the situation.

4) Display humility

In ancient Chinese philosophy, humility is considered one of the three treasures of Taoism, along with compassion and frugality.

It’s seen as a sign of strength and wisdom rather than weakness.

Showing humility means being aware of your strengths and weaknesses and not being afraid to admit when you’re wrong.

It’s about remaining open to learning and growth, regardless of your accomplishments or status.

5) Value others

Every person in this world, regardless of their role or status, has something unique to offer. We all deserve to be recognized and valued for our contributions.

Valuing others means acknowledging their worth and treating them with kindness and respect. It’s about appreciating their efforts, no matter how small they may seem, and recognizing the difference they make.

This could be as simple as thanking your barista for making your coffee just the way you like it, or acknowledging a coworker for their help on a project.

When you show people that they’re valued, they not only feel good about themselves but they also develop a deep sense of respect for you.

6) Practice honesty

Being honest means speaking the truth, even when it’s not easy or convenient. It’s about being transparent and authentic, regardless of the situation.

Of course, honesty doesn’t mean being brutally blunt or insensitive. It’s about communicating truths tactfully and respectfully, considering others’ feelings and perspectives.

7) Show gratitude

Gratitude is a habit that not only makes you feel good but also earns you respect.

It reflects your ability to acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of others. It could be thanking a friend for their support, a colleague for their hard work, or even a stranger for their kind gesture.

When you express gratitude, it not only shows respect to the person you’re thanking, but it also makes them feel valued and appreciated.

8) Be generous

Generosity is not just about giving material things. It can also mean offering your time, knowledge, or skills to help others.

In the animal kingdom, studies have found that even rats exhibit generosity. They will often help another rat in need, even if it means sharing their food or foregoing a treat.

Humans, too, appreciate generosity. A generous person is seen as someone who cares for others’ well-being, making them more likable and respected.

9) Maintain integrity

I remember a time when I had the option to take a shortcut in a project. It would have made my life easier and no one would have known.

But I chose to do the right thing, even when it wasn’t easy. I chose integrity over convenience.

It was a difficult decision, but it made me realize the importance of integrity in earning respect.

Integrity is about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. It’s about standing by your principles and values, regardless of the situation or outcome.

10) Lead by example

Actions speak louder than words. You can talk about respect all day long, but if your actions don’t match your words, you won’t earn respect.

Leading by example means embodying the values and habits you want others to adopt. It’s about showing respect to others through your actions, not just your words.

When you lead by example, you become a role model for others. They see your actions and are inspired to act in a similar manner.