Respecting Others: A Universal Value For A Harmonious World
Respect means treating others with kindness, dignity, and empathy. It is about recognizing the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of their age, status, background, or profession. Respect is not just a social courtesy—it is a core value that shapes our behaviour, relationships, and the very fabric of our society.
In simple words, as we often hear growing up: “बड़ों का सम्मान करना और छोटों को प्यार देना” (Respect elders and show love to the younger ones).
But this raises a fundamental question: To Whom We Should Show Respect?
From childhood, we are often taught to respect those who are older than us—parents, grandparents, teachers, senior relatives, and neighbours. Age, in this traditional view, becomes the primary criterion for respect.
While that is undoubtedly true, is it enough?
Let’s reflect on the meaning of “छोटों” (Chhoto). Does it only refer to someone younger in age? And showing love & care is more applicable than showing respect to them.
What about people with less authority? Individuals in subordinate roles? Those with fewer resources or less education? Daily-wage workers, house helps, or labourers etc.
In our daily lives, we often overlook the importance of respecting every human being we meet, regardless of their social or economic status. Yet, every human being—regardless of age, role, or status —deserves respect.
Another aspect often-Ignored Companion is Self-Respect.
While we are taught to respect others, especially our seniors, we often overlook self-respect during our upbringing. But it is equally important to value and honour us.
Self-respect is the foundation of self-confidence and emotional well-being. When we respect ourselves, we set healthy boundaries and become more capable of respecting others.
- Self-respect is how we see ourselves—how much we value and believe in ourselves. It builds self-belief and independence.
- Ego, on the other hand, is about how we compare ourselves to others. Ego makes us feel either superior to others—or look down on those we perceive as inferior.
Real-Life Example: A Leader Who Trusted and Valued
Let me share an experience with a senior leader sitting at corporate office, one of the corporate initiatives was to be implemented across all manufacturing sites.
He visited our site once or twice a month. As the single-point coordinator being our manufacturing site, I interacted with him regularly.
During our first meeting, he guided us to implement a tracking format for monitoring descaling activities on machines to improve efficiency. We diligently applied this across over 150 machines at all plants.
On his next visit, he asked to see the records. I presented the documents from one plant and told him the rest were on the way.
What he said next left a deep impact on me:
“I completely trust you. I am not asking to question your integrity—I just want to see how the format is working and whether any changes are needed.”
Though I was much junior to him, his words made me feel valued—not just as a colleague, but as a person. That moment created a lasting emotional bond. My respect for him grew immensely.
Contrast Experience: A Relationship Without Emotional Bonding
At the same time, I had a dissimilar experience with another senior leader, who is working with another corporate initiative.
This individual did not trust our statements and insisted on verifying every detail before accepting anything. There was no emotional connection or mutual respect—only formal interactions based on position and rules. It felt mechanical, lacking the warmth and trust that respect should foster.
Real-Life event: A Lesson in Humanity and Mutual Respect
This story is from the early days of my career, when I was in-charge of a plant where many operators were older than my father.
A senior operator offered me a glass of water. Few days later, I politely asked him not to do that, saying:
“You are like my father. I feel uncomfortable when you serve me water. I can take it myself.”
After a pause, he responded with gentle humility:
“Sir, I also have a son older than you. I offer you water just as I would to him, with love and no other intention.”
That moment truly moved me. It was a mutual exchange of respect—not based on position, but on humanity.
The Science of Respect: Just like Newton’s third law — “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction”— respect given earns respect back.
Respect and Self-respect are not just ideals—they are essential for Personal growth, building emotional bonds, creating healthy relationship, harmonious workplace and Strengthening communities.
When we treat others with respect, we create a ripple effect of positivity. We must learn to Value everyone regardless of their background, listen actively & empathetically, Treat all beings with kindness including animals and nature, Avoiding judgment—offering support & empathy when needed and Honouring personal boundaries—physical, emotional, and intellectual.
In professional settings, respect is essential for keeping morale, productivity, and engagement. Respectful leaders lead by example—appreciating employee contributions, handling disagreements professionally with grace and creating a culture of psychological safety.
In our daily interactions, our mood often shapes how we speak or behave. But We may not always realize how deeply our words or actions affect others, especially depending on their emotional state. Sometimes we regret our reactions afterward. This is why mindful behaviour is important.
The study reveals that, Behavioural change takes at least nine months of conscious practice to become a habit. So, let’s begin with baby steps:
· Say “please” and “thank you”—small words, big impact
· Listen empathetically—more than you speak
· Give credit where it’s due
· Accept constructive criticism gracefully; offer it tactfully
· Respect different perspectives—even if you disagree
· Avoid gossip, name-calling, or condescending language
Respect is not earned by status or power; it is something everyone deserves by virtue of being human. When we make a conscious effort to treat others with dignity, we not only uplift them but also elevate ourselves. Whether young or old, rich or poor, educated or not—every human being deserves respect.
Respect is not a privilege reserved for a few. It’s a basic right that should extend to all, regardless of background or status.
Imagine a world where every person feels: Valued, Heard and Understood
That world is possible—if we live by the principle of universal respect. Whether it is a child, an elder, a janitor, a CEO, a street vendor, or a homemaker—every human being deserves to be treated with dignity.
Let’s commit to this value—every day. Because a culture of respect, empathy, and kindness is the foundation of a truly progressive society.