Being respected is something that is very important. We all want our coworkers, friends and family to look up to us and think of us as quality individuals. Gaining respect can be difficult, if people aren't used to giving it to you.

The best way to earn respect is by meaning what you say. Be honest at all times. People want to be around someone who is truthful. Don't make promises you cannot keep and don't give people false impressions. This is simply a disaster waiting to happen. If people know they can count on what you say, they will automatically respect you more.

Don't badmouth other people. When you talk negatively about someone else, the person you're talking to often wonders if you're doing the same thing to them behind their back. Do give your honest opinion about others if asked, but don't make a secret about it. If you don't like the way John Doe treats his employees by all means tell people, but be ready to tell John Doe as well.

Figure out what you want to be respected for and go after it. Wanting to be respected is a very general thing. Do you want to be respected as a savvy businessman or a genuine family man? Everyone wants to be admired and respected for different things. Figure out what's important to you and make it your goal to further that ambition. Don't make a blanket statement to yourself simply noting that you want to be respected.

Respect can be a tricky word. Sometimes people can respect you for things you don't like about yourself. The most important thing is that you have self-respect. If everyone in the world respects you, it doesn't matter at all if you don't respect yourself. Figure out your strong points and where you want to improve.