In a world that’s constantly trying to push you down, it can be difficult to speak up – especially if you’re a people-pleaser.
Cultivating self-respect is a skill, just like any other, and depending on the environment you’re in, might not be one that comes naturally to you.
Here are 5 ways to practice self-respect and why.
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- Know Thyself
An aphorism as ancient as philosophy of the self, getting to know who you are as a person is crucial in building self confidence. Understanding your own ethics and values allows for a deeper appreciation of your uniqueness, leading to a better view of who you are. The more you discover how complex and multifaceted you are, the harder it is to be taken advantage of.
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- Maintain Your Values
This means putting in the work. Yes, sometimes it’s difficult standing up for what you think is right – but it’s the only way for you to maintain authenticity. Values are important as they shape the way you think about yourself, and if you don’t respect the values you have set then you may have a much harder time respecting yourself. Start small and be firm but always keep kindness in mind.
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- Reframe Positivity
No, it’s not realistic to be positive all the time. Sometimes things are just terrible, but being positive also means having the courage to rise up from the mess. It’s knowing you will turn out alright even when the situation seems bleak. This encourages trust within your own capabilities and strengthens your resolve. Those two are crucial in cultivating respect.
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- Move at Your Own Pace
No one’s path is the same, not even remotely familiar – so why bother trying to play catch up? Everyone moves at the pace that works for them, and that goes for you, too. When you stop making room for milestones that do not serve you, you gain a clearer picture of your priorities. Marching to the beat of your own drum signals confidence, and confidence signals self respect.
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- Forgive Yourself
We are human. That single reminder is enough to warrant kindness towards our own selves. Admit your past wrongdoings, apologize (to yourself and to the people you’ve hurt!) and move on. Everything else is irrelevant. By allowing yourself the room to acknowledge and own up to your past mistakes, you allow yourself the chance to improve. You do come out stronger and this contributes lots to your self-respect.
These are only some of the practices you can incorporate into your daily life. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise is also key, of course, but we all know that’s easier said than done.
That being said, remember to take it easy and strive to be a little better than we were yesterday.