Core Concepts
To gain genuine self-respect, one must engage in behaviors that cultivate self-respect from within, rather than seeking external validation.
Abstract
The article discusses ten simple behaviors that can help build genuine self-respect. The author emphasizes that true self-respect comes from within, rather than seeking respect from others.
The key highlights include:
- Regularly doing things that frighten you, as fear is often a sign of what you should do to feel more alive.
- Slowing down your speech and movements, which is an "act as if" behavior that can have a powerful impact on your sense of self-respect.
- Keeping your word and following through on your commitments, as this builds trust and integrity.
- Spending time alone in reflection and introspection, which allows you to get to know yourself better.
- Dressing and grooming in a way that makes you feel confident and proud.
- Avoiding gossip and negative talk about others, as this can undermine your own self-respect.
- Practicing gratitude and appreciating the positive aspects of your life.
- Setting boundaries and saying "no" to things that don't align with your values.
- Celebrating your own accomplishments and milestones, rather than seeking external validation.
- Surrounding yourself with people who respect and support you, as this can reinforce your own self-respect.
The author emphasizes that these behaviors, while simple, are not necessarily easy, but can lead to an upward spiral of confidence and genuine self-respect.
Quotes
"To gain respect you must become someone who genuinely respects themselves."
"Fear isn't always an indication of what to avoid. In fact, unless it's a charging rhino, most fears you have are signs of what TO do."