Do you ever wonder what it takes to earn immediate respect from others?
Today, we dive into some subtle yet powerful Stoic habits that command instant respect.
Embracing Stoic principles can transform how others perceive you, providing a blueprint for resilience, wisdom, and emotional stability. In a world obsessed with image and fleeting impressions, grounding yourself in these enduring habits can set you apart.
How many do you have? Let’s find out.
1) Practice gratitude
“Do not think of what are absent as though they were not existing, but ponder on the most fortunate of what you have got, and on account of them remind yourself how they would have been missed, if they had not been here.” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Stoics are big believers in appreciating what you have right here, right now.
I remember a time when I was caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, always wanting more and never truly satisfied with what I had. Then, I stumbled upon Stoicism and the practice of gratitude.
I started to write down three things I was grateful for each day. They could be as simple as a warm cup of coffee in the morning or a thoughtful message from a friend.
This practice radically shifted my perspective. Instead of focusing on what I didn’t have, I appreciated what I did have.
People around me also noticed this change. They saw that even in tough times, I remained thankful for my blessings. This attitude garnered respect from others and brought a newfound peace into my life.
So, if you want to command respect, try incorporating gratitude into your daily routine. It’s not about pretending that everything is perfect, but about finding the good in every situation.
2) Exercise self-control
“Whatever anyone may do or say, I am bound to be good” – Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
Stoicism places a high value on self-control. It’s about mastering your desires and keeping your emotions in check.
It teaches us that the truest form of freedom comes from within, from our ability to control our reactions to the world around us.
Self-control is not about suppressing your emotions, but about understanding and managing them effectively. People naturally respect those who can keep their cool under pressure and who aren’t easily swayed by their desires.
3) Value actions over words
“Don’t any more discuss at large what the good man is like, but be good.” Marcus Aurelius (The Meditations of the Emperor Marcus Antoninus, 1944)
In the Stoic philosophy, actions speak louder than words. It’s not about what you say, but what you do that truly matters.
People respect those who walk the talk, who show up consistently, and who stay true to their word. Making promises is easy, but taking action and following through is what distinguishes you.
Instead of flaunting your plans or intentions, let your actions do the talking.
The respect you gain from being a person of action, rather than just words, is immeasurable.
4) Show empathy
Stoics understand the importance of empathy. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and understanding their perspective.
We all go through struggles and hardships. By acknowledging this shared human experience, we can connect with others on a deeper level.
Empathy isn’t about pity or feeling sorry for someone. It’s about acknowledging their feelings and showing that you understand.
When you demonstrate empathy, you show others that you see them, that you hear them, and that you care about their experiences.
And that’s a quick way to earn respect. Because when you show genuine empathy, you’re not just being a good friend or colleague—you’re being a good human.
5) Acceptance
There’s a sort of mantra in Stoicism that goes, “Change what you can, accept what you can’t.”
I struggled with this concept at first. I had always been a planner, always trying to control every aspect of my life. When things didn’t go as planned, I’d get frustrated and upset.
But practicing Stoicism has taught me the value of acceptance—realizing that there are things beyond my control and learning to be at peace with them.
The moment I started to accept the things I couldn’t change, I felt a weight lift off my shoulders. I was no longer fighting against the current but flowing with it.
Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation or defeat. It means understanding that some things are beyond our control, and that’s okay. This attitude not only brings inner peace but also garners respect from those around you.
6) Stay humble
“When you have adopted the simple life, do not pride yourself upon it, and if you are a water-drinker do not say on every occasion, ‘I am a water-drinker.’ And if you ever want to train laboriously, keep it to yourself and do not make a show of it.” – Epictetus (The Discourses of Epictetus, 1916)
Stoics are humble. They understand their place in the universe and recognize their own limitations.
Humility is not about belittling oneself or lacking confidence. Instead, it’s about acknowledging that we’re not infallible, that we have a lot to learn, and that each person has something to teach us.
People respect those who are humble, who listen more than they speak, and who are open to learning from others.
7) Live according to your values
At the heart of Stoicism lies the principle of living in accordance with your values. It’s about staying true to yourself and what you believe in, regardless of external pressures.
Living according to your values is not always easy. It requires courage, integrity, and resilience. But it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do.
People respect those who are genuine, who stand up for what they believe in, and who don’t compromise their values for short-term gains.
Live your truth. Stand by your values. Not only will this lead to a more fulfilled life, but it will also command immediate respect from those around you.
The essence: It’s all about character
The art of earning respect lies deeply intertwined with our character and how we conduct ourselves.
These subtle Stoic habits may seem challenging to incorporate into our lives initially, but when we live by them, we naturally command respect from others. Not because we seek it but because we’ve earned it through our actions and our character.
As always, I hope you enjoyed this post. For more insights and practical advice on living a stoic life, consider subscribing to our newsletter below!
Until next time, stay Stoic.
What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.
