Having self-respect is an essential part of intentional living. It is almost like a gift because not everybody possesses it. Although some people may think they have it their character says otherwise. So what is self-respect?
Understanding Self-Respect
Respect is having the decency to refrain from some habits. The total package borders on being able to treat people well. This would infer that a person acts reasonably even when it’s hard. Adding self to respect makes it a personal journey. Also known as amour propre, it is described as having regard for self-values and principles. Importantly, one cannot have self-respect for themselves and not extend the same to others. Such a person exudes confidence, and independence and is in control of their emotions.
Are There Benefits To Self-Respect?
Having self-regard would help one to feel fulfilled in their actions. This is because they trust that their decision-making is in their best interest. Another benefit is that it solidifies one’s principles. Values and characters are never compromised. Also, since self-assurance aims to look out for self, it would be difficult to be influenced.
Trends and peer pressure would never make them give up on self-values. One of the admirable benefits of self-respect is having the power to create boundaries. This will tell others how a person wants to be treated. Individuals who have faith in themselves carry on with life with a sense of pride and dignity. They also almost have a positive mindset about everything.
Five Ways Of Diminishing Self-Respect
A person who practices self-respect can also tell when they are not needed in a place. Anything that targets their self-respect, targets their self-worth. So what are the factors that lead to low self-respect?
Comparison
Comparing is a joy thief. It never makes a person feel like they are enough. This in turn affects the dependence on self and self-worth. Rather than compare and contrast, focus on appreciating self-abilities. The truth will always be that everyone is unique in their way!
Refusing To Catch A Break
Being the first to get to work and last to go home indicates a boring life. While it is important to pay attention to work, never over-stress. This can affect an individual’s ability to create a self-care routine. Additionally, an individual without dignity will always fail to see the bright side of things. They would rather brace up for the worse.
Going Below Standards
This translates to settling for less. It may not be the first intention. However, lack of self-esteem can affect a person’s confidence level. In the end, such a person would settle for less.
Running Away From Conflict
A person with a sense of self-worth would prefer to challenge the situation and get things resolved. One with no self-respect would always have it messy. While they are clumsy with decisions, they also find it difficult to care about their appearance.
Never Saying No To Disrespect
When people treat a person like garbage and they refuse to leave, then the victim lacks self-respect. This concept of self-worth is about living for the self. Giving in to people’s unmerited requests often is a turnoff. Another easy way to spot diminishing confidence is that anyone can treat them anyhow without remorse. Whether wrong or right, zero dignity makes a person apologize more than normal.
Final Note
Your journey to self-respect cannot be done by a second party. Forfeiting personal projects/ tasks for others greatly underscores a person’s abilities. In the end, the goal of self-respect is for personal growth and a fulfilling life.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?