We all want to feel respected at work. It makes our jobs more enjoyable, our relationships stronger, and our confidence higher. But sometimes, without even realizing it, we might be doing things that make others see us in a different light—things that quietly chip away at the respect we hope to earn.
The good news? Respect isn’t about demanding it from others—it’s about how we show up, how we communicate, and how we carry ourselves. And often, gaining more respect starts with letting go of certain habits that may be holding us back.
If you want to feel more respected by your co-workers and colleagues, it’s time to say goodbye to these behaviors.
1) Apologizing too much
We all make mistakes, and owning up to them is a sign of maturity. But constantly saying “sorry” for things that don’t require an apology can make you seem less confident and even undermine your credibility.
Over-apologizing can send the message that you doubt yourself or that you’re seeking approval from others. Instead of saying “Sorry for bothering you,” try “Do you have a moment?” Or instead of “Sorry for the delay,” say “Thank you for your patience.”
Shifting away from unnecessary apologies doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take responsibility when it’s truly needed. But if you want to be taken more seriously and feel more respected in the workplace, it’s time to say goodbye to the habit of apologizing for things that don’t require it.
2) Downplaying your own ideas
I used to start my sentences with phrases like, “This might be a dumb idea, but…” or “I’m not sure if this will work, but…” And every time I did, I was unknowingly telling my coworkers that my ideas weren’t worth taking seriously—before they even had a chance to consider them.
One day, a colleague pulled me aside and said, “You have great ideas. Stop undercutting yourself before you even speak.” That stuck with me. I realized that by downplaying my own contributions, I was making it easier for others to dismiss them too.
Now, instead of weakening my ideas before sharing them, I present them with confidence. If you want to be respected at work, stop giving people a reason to doubt you before they’ve even had the chance to listen.
3) Avoiding eye contact
Eye contact is one of the most powerful ways we communicate confidence and credibility. In fact, studies have shown that people who maintain strong eye contact are perceived as more competent and trustworthy.
When you constantly look away during conversations, it can make you seem unsure of yourself or even disinterested. And while avoiding eye contact might feel more comfortable—especially in high-pressure situations—it can unintentionally send the wrong message.
If you want to be taken more seriously, start practicing steady (but natural) eye contact. It shows that you’re engaged, self-assured, and someone worth listening to.
4) Letting your ego get in the way
Buddhism teaches that clinging to the ego is one of the biggest sources of suffering. And in the workplace, an inflated ego can quietly erode respect. When we’re too focused on being right, proving ourselves, or taking credit, we miss out on opportunities to grow and collaborate.
In my book, The Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I explore how letting go of the need for validation can actually make you more influential. True confidence doesn’t come from forcing others to recognize your worth—it comes from knowing it yourself.
The most respected people in any workplace aren’t the ones who constantly try to prove how important they are. They’re the ones who listen, stay humble, and focus on the bigger picture instead of their own status.
5) Never speaking up
For a long time, I convinced myself that staying quiet was the safest option. If I didn’t voice my thoughts, I couldn’t be wrong. If I didn’t challenge an idea, I wouldn’t make anyone uncomfortable. And if I didn’t ask for what I needed, I wouldn’t risk rejection.
But over time, I realized that silence didn’t protect me—it just made me invisible. The people who earn respect in the workplace aren’t necessarily the loudest or most outspoken, but they do speak up when it matters. They share their opinions, advocate for themselves, and contribute to conversations with confidence.
If you want to feel more respected by your colleagues, stop waiting for permission to use your voice. Speak with clarity, own your ideas, and trust that what you have to say is worth hearing.
6) Trying too hard to be liked
It seems logical—if people like you, they’ll respect you, right? But the truth is, constantly trying to win approval can actually have the opposite effect.
When you go out of your way to please everyone, agree with everything, or avoid any kind of disagreement, it can come across as inauthentic. People respect those who have their own opinions, set boundaries and aren’t afraid to say no when necessary.
Ironically, the less you chase approval, the more likely you are to earn genuine respect. Focus on being honest, fair, and consistent—not just on being liked—and people will take you more seriously.
7) Avoiding difficult conversations
No one enjoys uncomfortable conversations, but avoiding them doesn’t make problems go away—it just lets them grow. Whether it’s addressing a conflict, giving constructive feedback, or standing up for yourself, dodging tough discussions can make you seem passive or even untrustworthy.
The most respected people in any workplace aren’t the ones who avoid tension—they’re the ones who handle it with honesty and professionalism. They know that speaking up, even when it’s uncomfortable, is necessary for growth and stronger relationships.
If you want to be taken seriously, don’t shy away from difficult conversations. Approach them with clarity, respect, and a willingness to find solutions. People will respect you more for it.
8) Not valuing your own time
If you don’t respect your own time, no one else will either.
Saying yes to every request, allowing meetings to run endlessly, or constantly putting your own priorities last sends a message—you don’t see your time as valuable. And if you don’t, why should anyone else?
The most respected professionals set boundaries, protect their schedules, and know when to say no. They understand that their time isn’t just something to give away—it’s their most important resource.
Bottom line: Respect starts with you
Respect isn’t something you demand—it’s something you cultivate. And more often than not, it starts with how you carry yourself. The way you speak, the boundaries you set, and the confidence you bring to your work all shape how others perceive you.
A big part of this comes down to ego—not in the way we usually think of it, but in how we let it control our actions. In my book, The Hidden Secrets of Buddhism: How To Live With Maximum Impact and Minimum Ego, I explore how letting go of self-doubt and the constant need for validation can help you move through life—and work—with greater presence and influence.
At the end of the day, respect isn’t just about what others think of you. It’s about how you see yourself. And when you start showing up with confidence, clarity, and self-respect, you’ll be surprised at how quickly others follow suit.
