If someone constantly puts you down, you may think they’re rude. If someone always takes advantage of you, you may deem them selfish.

That’s the simple part of interpersonal relationships.

But let’s dig deeper. The real challenge lies in figuring out why we let such behaviors slide.

Why do we allow people to treat us poorly? It often boils down to a lack of self-respect.

In this piece, we’ll explore the behaviors that those who lack self-respect often tolerate. And trust me, it’s an eye-opening journey.

This is for those who find themselves nodding along too often, sacrificing their own well-being for others.

1) Accepting disrespect

Life’s a rollercoaster, isn’t it?

One moment you’re up, the next you’re down. It’s unpredictable and often, downright confusing.

And do you know what makes it even more complicated? People.

People with their attitudes, their opinions, and their behaviors. They can lift you up or bring you down in a heartbeat.

Now, imagine not having enough self-respect. In such a case, disrespect becomes a recurring theme.

You find yourself constantly on the receiving end of harsh words, rude behavior, and overall negative energy.

Why? Because you let them.

People who lack self-respect often allow others to treat them poorly. They tolerate disrespect because they don’t believe they deserve better.

But here’s the thing. Everyone deserves respect. Every single person. Including you.

Remember that.

2) Ignoring personal boundaries

Let me share a personal story with you.

A couple of years back, I had this friend. We hung out a lot, laughed a lot, and shared secrets.

But there was a problem. This friend had a knack for crossing boundaries.

If I was busy, they’d insist on my time. If I was upset, they’d belittle my feelings. If I needed space, they’d invade it.

And I let them.

Why? Because I didn’t respect myself enough to set boundaries and insist they be respected.

I thought maintaining the friendship was more important than safeguarding my peace.

But here’s what I learned: people who lack self-respect often let others encroach on their personal space, time, and emotions.

That’s not healthy. Nor is it fair.

You have the right to your boundaries. And anyone who truly cares about you will respect them. Always remember that.

3) Neglecting self-care

In the hustle and bustle of life, we often forget to take care of ourselves.

We’re busy meeting deadlines, fulfilling responsibilities, and ticking off to-do lists.

However, when you lack self-respect, neglecting self-care becomes a norm rather than an exception.

You put everyone else’s needs before your own and ignore the signals your body and mind are sending you.

What’s more, studies have shown that people who regularly practice self-care have lower stress levels and a higher quality of life.

Yet, those lacking self-respect often sideline their own needs for others.

It’s not selfish to prioritize your well-being. It’s necessary. Your body, your mind, they’re your responsibility. Treat them well.

4) Staying silent

Speak up, they say. Stand up for yourself, they urge. But it’s easier said than done, isn’t it?

Especially when you’re grappling with self-respect issues.

You swallow your words, choke on your feelings, and remain silent even when you’re screaming on the inside.

People who lack self-respect often tolerate being silenced. They let others drown their voices and dim their light.

They hesitate to express their thoughts, needs, or desires out of fear of rejection or ridicule.

But here’s a little reminder: your voice is your power.

And it deserves to be heard.

Don’t let anyone – not even yourself – take that away from you.

5) Accepting less than you deserve

I’ve been there, you know. Accepting less than what I deserve, settling for breadcrumbs when I should’ve been demanding the whole loaf.

It’s a common trap for those who lack self-respect.

You convince yourself that you don’t deserve the best, that you’re not worthy of genuine love, respect, or success.

But let me tell you this: that’s not true. Not one bit.

I’ve learned, through my own experiences and struggles, that we all deserve the best life has to offer.

But we must first believe it ourselves.

So if you find yourself settling for less, take a step back.

Ask yourself if this is truly what you deserve or if it’s time to demand more.

Because chances are, you deserve a lot more than you think.

6) Playing the martyr

Ever tried to be the hero of your own story, only to end up playing the martyr instead?

You take on more than you can handle, carry burdens that aren’t yours to bear, and sacrifice your happiness for others.

You tell yourself that it’s noble, that you’re being selfless.

But in reality, it’s a sign of lacking self-respect. You’re trying to earn approval and affection by overextending yourself.

But here’s the twist. Being a martyr doesn’t make you a hero.

It only leaves you drained and unhappy.

True selflessness comes from a place of strength and respect for oneself.

So help others, but not at the expense of your own well-being.

You are just as important as anyone else, and it’s okay to put yourself first sometimes.

7) Suppressing feelings and opinions

Ever held back a tear because you didn’t want to appear weak? Or swallowed an opinion because you feared judgment?

People who lack self-respect often suppress their feelings and opinions.

They hide their true selves behind a wall of pretense, believing that their feelings are not valid or their opinions don’t matter.

But here’s the truth. Your feelings are valid. Your opinions matter. And you have every right to express them.

Suppressing what you truly feel or think doesn’t protect you. It only keeps you from being your authentic self.

So let it out. Cry if you want to, share your thoughts when you need to.

It’s your life, your journey. Embrace it in all its raw, beautiful honesty.

8) Ignoring your worth

The most crucial thing to remember is this: you are worthy.

Worthy of respect, love, kindness, success – all the good things in life. No matter what anyone says or does, your worth remains constant.

People who lack self-respect often forget their worth.

They let others define them and shape their self-image.

But your worth is not negotiable. It’s not dependent on others’ opinions or actions.

So don’t let anyone – including yourself – convince you otherwise.

You are worthy. Always remember that.

Final thoughts

As we wrap up this journey, I want you to remember this: self-respect isn’t something that can be taken away from you.

It’s something you give away when you tolerate behaviors that undermine your worth.

Remember, each one of us is unique, valuable, and deserving of respect.

And this respect must first come from within.

If you don’t respect yourself, you can’t expect others to.

In the words of the great philosopher Kant, “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.”

So let’s take a moment to reflect.

Are we giving away our self-respect by tolerating certain behaviors? Are we guilty of not respecting ourselves?

And if the answer is yes, remember it’s never too late to make a change.

It’s never too late to reclaim your self-respect.

Because at the end of the day, you are your longest commitment.

Treat yourself kindly. You deserve it.