Do you ever feel like people don’t show you respect or common courtesy these days?

It seems like society has become more self-centered and inconsiderate.

Respect is an important value that allows people to live together in harmony, but it’s unfortunately not always practiced.

We’ve all been stuck in conversations where the other person won’t stop interrupting.

Or had friends flake on plans at the last minute. When people are late, inconsiderate, or use offensive language, it makes us feel devalued and disrespected.

Small courtesies like holding the door or saying “please” and “thank you” seem uncommon. It’s easy to become discouraged and think, “What happened to basic respect?”

The truth is, we all get busy and make mistakes. Showing consistent respect takes effort and intention. But when people are respectful, it makes such a difference!

Little courtesies brighten our day and being treated with dignity feels affirming. By making respect a priority in your daily life, you can be part of the solution instead of the problem.

Putting these tips into action benefits both yourself and others around you.

1. Listen Without Interrupting

When conversing with others, make an effort to truly listen without interrupting.

Don’t just wait for your turn to talk – focus on what the other person is saying and let them finish their thought.

Show your attentiveness through body language like eye contact and facing the speaker.

Verbal affirmations like “I see” and “go on” also indicate that you are engaged in the dialogue.

Interrupting is disrespectful because it conveys the message that what you have to say is more important than what the other person was saying.

2. Use Manners and Common Courtesies

Basic manners and common courtesies show respect for those around you. Things like saying “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” in your interactions exhibit respect by honoring others and expressing gratitude.

Hold doors open for people right behind you, let others go first in line, greet people when you encounter them, and wish people well when parting ways. These simple courtesies make a big difference!

3. Be Punctual

Arriving on time for work, social gatherings and appointments demonstrates respect for other people and their time.

When you’re late, you send the message that you think your time is more valuable than theirs.

Strive to arrive 5-10 minutes early for scheduled events. If you’re running late, call ahead to let people know and offer an apology. Setting alarms and allowing extra travel time can help you be more punctual.

4. Keep Promises and Commitments

You build trust and respect in relationships by keeping your word.

When you follow through on promises and commitments you’ve made, it shows others that you value them and their expectations.

So be sure to deliver on what you say you’ll do – whether it’s finishing a work project, calling a friend back or taking the kids to soccer practice.

Honor both big commitments and small promises.

5. Validate Others’ Perspectives

You don’t have to always agree with someone’s viewpoint to respect it.

Validate others’ perspectives by acknowledging that they are entitled to have opinions different than your own.

Phrases like “I understand where you’re coming from” and “I can see how you would feel that way” demonstrate respect even if you disagree.

Ask curious questions to understand their reasoning rather than dismissing ideas that don’t align with yours.

6. Avoid Judgmental or Offensive Language

The words you use impact others, so strive to avoid judgmental or offensive language.

Name-calling and hurtful remarks show disrespect. Gossiping or making assumptions about people is also disrespectful.

Use language that builds others up, not puts them down. If someone expresses being offended by certain terms, honor their request to avoid using those words.

Being mindful of how your language affects people is a way to show respect.

7. Respect Others’ Time

In addition to being punctual yourself, you can show respect for others’ time by being succinct. Avoid rambling on and taking up more of their time than necessary.

Be considerate of people’s packed schedules. Before scheduling a meeting or call, ask if it’s a good time to talk. When you need to reschedule, propose alternative times that accommodate the other person.

Valuing others’ time demonstrates respect.

8. Treat Others How You Want to Be Treated

This timeless wisdom still holds true – treat others how you want to be treated. Extend the same courtesy and honor to people that you would want to receive yourself.

Imagine being on the receiving end of your words and actions before interacting with someone. If it wouldn’t feel good to you, then adjust your behavior to show greater respect. Simple, but very effective.

9. Don’t Talk Over Or Down To Others

Respect means never talking over or down to others. Don’t dominate conversations or interrupt in a way that minimizes people.

And don’t patronize people by using simplistic language or a condescending tone as if they are beneath you.

Make people feel heard, valued and equal through your words. Address everyone respectfully regardless of factors like age, background, gender or position.

Let your speech boost up rather than diminish people.

10. Be Considerate In Shared Spaces

Your actions impact others when sharing communal spaces. Demonstrate respect in places like public transportation, office common areas, neighborhoods, etc.

Don’t blast music or make excessive noise. Keep your belongings contained. Dispose of trash properly.

Be aware of how much space you take up. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way in shared environments!

Respect makes the world a nicer place to inhabit together. Integrating these tips into your daily life will help cultivate an environment of mutual honor and consideration. Respect begins with you!