For today's head-scratching, nail-bitter, let's talk about respect. We've discussed the topic before as it relates to guys, but I wonder: Is it better to be well-liked or well-respected in this world? Are they the same thing? For me, I'd much rather be liked. Because when you think about it, isn't being liked the foundation of respect? As corny as it sounds, I can't help but think that respect sort of blossoms like a spring flower -- each petal a different part that makes up the whole. Being liked is most definitely one of those parts. Does that make sense, friends?
So I'd love to know: Where do you stand? Would you be happier being liked or respected? Are they mutually exclusive? Can you have one without the other? Are there certain aspects of life in which you'd prefer one over the other? xoxo
[Photo via We Heart It]
17 Comments:
I think it depends on the situation. At work, I'd rather be respected; amongst my friends, I'd rather be liked.
Well, my dear Melissa, I would like to be respected by those who don't like me! :) I always say that, when I start a new job, I want to be respected first...and then, we can build a more personal relationship based on that. On a more personal level (friends, significant other...), I guess that the 'likability' component is stronger, and it comes first. However, 'respect' is also crucial on any personal relationship. Melissa, I like u and respect u! :) xoxo
I'd rather be respected. I'd rather go through life earning people's respect for who I am, by working hard, staying true to my values, being honest, clear and direct. Worrying about whether or not people like me is a never-ending game. People may not always like me, but if they respect that I am my own person and that I stay true to my values, then that's enough for me. If they like me and respect me, well, I guess the like part is a bonus.
i think i'd rather be respected. because i think if you gain someone's respect, they have to at least like you a little bit ;)
i think its so easy to just be liked but have no respect at the same time.
but all in all, i think it depends on the circumstances and the environment.
Being an artist, people usually just like me first, and it's hard to get respect. A lot of people think I just sit around all day and draw stuff on paper and don't use my brain. Maybe people wrongly treat you like that as a writer?
But, in the long run, I suppose I'd rather be liked. Hey, at least we can make people smile and feel good about themselves! :)
Lovely post, Melissa!
I think you can like someone without respecting them. But I think I would rather be well liked. Mostly because I can't stand having people not liking me. But if they respected me to even better. :)
Definitely Respected!
I'd say respect. At work I've given up people liking me, I just want their respect for the work I do for them. It does depend on the situation, because in my cupcake class I want the ladies to like me. Interesting topic dear..I'm enjoying reading everyone else's comments! =)
I was going to say "respected" at first, but you have a good point. I think I'd like to be liked but I don't want to be taken advantage of.
not being liked is the worst feeling i can think of, because it is so out of your control and you know you're likable or liked by many! but not being respected is even worse then not being liked. SO, i would have to go with... i'd much rather be respected!
If people don't respect you, they will never truly like you, though they may try to pretend.
i have to say respected. if people respect you, they aren't going to be particularly mean to you as if they don't like you. but if someone likes you and doesn't respect you, there's not really any trust there or a productive relationship where you both recognize each other's needs, boundaries, etc. i'm taking a communication class in college so i've already talked a lot about this!
I love these -- looks like respect is pretty high on everyone's list. :)
Danie, I'm feel the same thing about being a writer.
Respect definitely is high on the list! Well Melissa, I'm sure me plus all your readers truly respect you as a writer. See? It's possible to be liked and respected simultaneously! :)
I do not see that being liked is the foundation of respect. I have respect for many people I don't like. As a former teacher, being liked didn't mean the teacher was respected at all.
Gloria
I do not see that being liked is the foundation of respect. I have respect for many people I don't like. As a former teacher, being liked didn't mean the teacher was respected at all.
Gloria
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