Why is respect important

 Respect

Respect is a feeling of deep admiration for someone, or something elicited by their abilities, qualities or status. It is also an act of treating someone with consideration and care.

Since ages, we have been taught to respect our elders. This includes our grandparents, parents, teachers and mentors. We are taught to show our respect by touching their feet, seeking their blessings, and following their advice. 

But, I believe, we were taught incorrectly. RESPECT is not a one - way street. It must be mutual.

Respect is mutual. PERIOD!

We have all been taught to respect our elders, but I believe that this is a lesson that we need to unlearn. Respect is not something that should be given blindly, regardless of whether or not the person deserves it. 

Respect must be earned. RESPECT HAS TO BE EARNED. IT IS NOT AN INHERITANCE.

It is important to acknowledge the inherent worth of every individual. Every individual deserves a basic level of respect and the right to be treated with dignity. However, it is always a two-way street. 

You really need to earn that respect. Old age or higher ranks do not guarantee respect.

Now, the reasons why I say this are as follows:

1.      Respect is earned through actions, not age. Just because someone is older does not mean they are automatically deserving of respect. It is earned through one’s actions, such as being kind, compassionate and responsible.

2.      Respect is a two-way street. If we expect to be respected, we must also be willing to respect others.

3.      Mutual respect is important for healthy relationships. A relationship should have the foundation of respect which helps to minimize conflict, misunderstanding, and even abuse.

What is Respect:

The biggest misconception about "RESPECT" is that it is merely a physical gesture such as touching feet and seeking blessings, which is so not true. 

It is a deep-rooted attitude that manifests in our thoughts, words and actions.

Respect means:

1.      Agreeing to disagree.

2.      Listening to each other.

3.      Heeding opinions.

4.      Paying attention.

5.      Treating others with kindness.

6.      Not looking down on others and dismissing them.

Forget everything else and just consider the fact that the person you are interacting with is a fellow human being. Humanity is above all.

Ways to be respectful:

Respecting others is a skill that can be (and needs to be) cultivated and nurtured. Various ways to respect are:

1. Active listening.

2. Understanding others.

3. Empathy.

4. Willing to help others.

5. Willing to apologize when wrong.

6. Being polite.

7. Encouraging and supporting others.

8. Willing to show gratitude.

Respect at the workplace:

In the dynamic and ever evolving world of work, respect stands as a main ingredient for a thriving and a productive work environment. It is a glue that binds the individuals at the workplace and premises.

Respect is not merely a courtesy, but a fundamental requisite for success.

We should not forget that a workplace consists of different types of individuals, with various types of personalities, backgrounds and experiences. Beyond their professional roles, they are human beings with feelings, complex emotions, needs and personal journey. 

They need to be taken care of. Respect amongst the people in the workplace fosters a positive and engaging work environment which in turn leads to employee satisfaction and increased morale. 

Employees’ emotional well-being is essential, and respect is a key ingredient to achieving that.

Importance of Respect at the workplace:

“Respect is the new currency in the workplace.”- Louis Carter

It is needless to say that mutual respect plays a huge role in the workplace. Some of the benefits are as follows:

1. Reduces stress.

2. Increases productivity and collaboration.

3. Employee satisfaction.

4. Creates a fair environment.

Wrapping up:

Respect is the foundation of harmonious human interactions. It is the bedrock upon which meaningful connections are built, encouraging empathy and understanding. It guides our interactions with family, friends and even strangers.

Respect is the glue that binds the network of human existence. 

So, let us create an environment of respect and build a better society.

Take care!

                                                                                                                    Sucheta

Disclaimer: I am not an expert or a professional in the field of mental health. This writing is based solely on my experience and observation, and it is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. If you need help with mental health issues, please contact a qualified professional.