4. Seek Respect

Seek respect is a rule that I credit with getting me where I am today, so it holds a special place in my heart. Every person should aim to seek and be shown respect. We don’t usually think about seeking respect unless we’re in a situation where we may not be shown it. However, actively seeking respect makes you appear to be someone deserving of it, which will attract the right people to you. Most of today’s biggest success stories stem from someone seeking respect for an idea, product, business, or oneself. Success begins with seeking out respect, but it’s what we decide to do once we’ve obtained respected that’s most important.

As I’ve mentioned, I’ve been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. It’s something I’ve learned to accept and manage, but just prior to receiving my diagnosis, it began causing turbulence in my life. In the fall of 2017, I’d entered into a new relationship that was particularly strained by my struggles with BPD. I wasn’t taking care of my mental health, which eventually led to my emotional illness being exposed. Because I hadn’t received a diagnosis yet, I ended up doing a lot of damage in that new relationship and others. I was out of touch with myself and unaware of the pain I was causing those I cared about. People kept telling me I was a terrible person, that my friends and family couldn’t bear to be around me. Obviously, hearing this was devastating, so it became incredibly important to me to seek respect for myself and my mental health, especially from those who never seemed to take it seriously. The pain that I caused to others before I understood my BPD diagnosis was a secondary motivator for seeking respect. I wanted and still want people to see me for more than a label; I want them to see and respect me for the person I’ve shaped myself into, despite my diagnosis and not due to it.

What parts of you or accomplishments of yours are you seeking respect for? Where are you looking for recognition? If you seek respect in all you do, you’re on the path towards success. People gravitate towards those they respect, and when you’re seeking it, it shows. Start seeking out respect and notice the opportunities that present themselves. Remind yourself that what you are doing is worthy of respect to help you push through any mental barriers or blocks.