How to Respect Yourself

Self respect is very important in developing confidence and a positive attitude. The way you feel about yourself can affect the way you treat others and your interaction with them. You may think that respecting yourself is simple, yet many people do not give themselves enough respect. The sad truth is that, if you don't respect yourself, you may find that others may not have much respect for you either.You may also find that it is difficult to respect others when you don't respect yourself. Respect starts with you, so learn how to respect yourself.

Instructions

1. • 1
     Have confidence in yourself. Confident people also tend to respect themselves. If you lack confidence it is time you start trusting in yourself and your abilities.
   • 2
     Make a list of your strengths and positive attributes. Learn to focus on those aspects of yourself.
   • 3
     Treat others with respect and by doing so you will develop respect for yourself. As you treat others respectfully you will also be treated respectfully. Those who treat others with a lack of respect often lack respect for themselves. Treat others with respect regardless of how they treat you, and realize that you are helping to teach them self-respect while building respect for yourself at the same time.
   • 4
     Surround yourself with positive people who respect themselves and others. By being in the presence of those who are positive and confident, you will find yourself becoming infused with their enthusiasm, self-respect and positive energy. It is much healthier than being around those who are constantly putting themselves and others down.
   • 5
     Choose your friends wisely. Pick quality over quantity. People often like to have many friends because it makes them feel popular and important, but having a few friends of good character is worth more than a large circle of friends and superficial popularity. If your friends bring you down or disrespect you in any way, it may be time to re-evaluate your friendship.
   • 6
     Be a leader, not a follower. Don't let anyone try to talk you into doing or being something you are not. People often make the mistake of becoming chameleon-like in order to please others. They change according to the company they keep. Don't let your own self-respect be diminished in order to conform to the wishes of others. Be yourself above all things. People will like and respect you for the person you are.
   • 7
     Work to improve yourself on all levels, meaning physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. If you are unhappy with any aspect of yourself, you may find it difficult to respect yourself. No one is perfect. Everyone makes mistakes. Forgive yourself for past mistakes, and move forward. Always strive to be the best you can and you will earn the respect you deserve.