Respectful men don’t just say please and thank you or consult other people before making decisions. They set themselves apart by doing some big things differently than their fellow guys. Here are a few behaviors to look out for. If you spot them, you know you’re dealing with one of the finest.
1. They Have Unique Ways of Showing Respect.
They’re not just following some rule book on being polite. Maybe it’s their quirky text messages checking in on friends, or how they always remember small details about people. It’s these little, personal touches that show they genuinely care and respect other people. It feels real and not like they’re just going through the motions. Their style of respect is as unique as they are, and it totally sets them apart.
2. Their Compliments Are Specific and Genuine.
When these guys give a compliment, it’s not your run-of-the-mill “nice shirt” kind of thing. They notice the little things and mention them. Like, “Hey, I saw your art project on Instagram, the colors were amazing!” or “You have a way of explaining things that just makes sense.” Their compliments aren’t just polite; they’re personal and genuine. It shows they really pay attention, making their compliments all the more special.
3. They’re Champions of the Underdog.
They’re not doing it to show off; they genuinely dislike seeing anyone being left out or treated unfairly. Whether it’s in class, at work, or in a group, they’re the ones making sure everyone gets heard. It’s like they have this radar for fairness and they’re not afraid to speak up when things aren’t right.
4. They Know How to Apologize Like Pros.
They don’t just mutter a half-hearted “sorry.” They own up to what they did, explain why it was wrong, and actually make efforts to do better. It’s about taking responsibility and showing they respect people enough to admit when they’re wrong.
5. They’re Cool With Being Wrong.
In a debate or discussion, if someone points out they’re off base, they’re not getting all defensive. They’re like, “Oh, snap, you’re right. Thanks for pointing that out!” It’s this openness to learning and not needing to always be the ‘winner’ in a conversation that makes them stand out. They value the truth and different perspectives more than just boosting their own ego. It’s a refreshing change from the usual ‘I’m always right’ attitude, and people really respect that kind of humility and openness.
6. They Remember and Celebrate Other People.
It’s not just birthdays and anniversaries; they remember that job interview you were nervous about or that you were working on a personal project. Then, they follow up or congratulate you. It’s this habit of recognizing other people’s milestones and moments that shows deep respect and thoughtfulness, making those around them feel valued and special.
7. They’re Open About Their Own Struggles.
This openness shows they respect people enough to be real with them. It breaks down barriers and makes them relatable. They’re not trying to put up a front of being perfect or untouchable; instead, they’re honest about the ups and downs they face, creating a space where other people feel comfortable sharing too.
8. They’re Respectful Even When They’re Annoyed.
They understand that snapping at someone or being rude isn’t going to solve anything. They might need to step away to cool down or find a calm way to express their frustration, but they’re not going to lash out. This level of self-control and respect, even under pressure, really sets them apart.
9. Their Social Media Presence Is Positive and Encouraging.
They’re not into online drama or trolling. Instead, they’re sharing positive vibes, uplifting stories, or cheering on their friends’ achievements. Their online profiles reflect that — you won’t catch them trolling.
10. They Make Everyone Feel Like Part of the Group.
Whether it’s in a group project, at a party, or in a meeting, they’re the ones making sure everyone is involved and feels part of the group. They’re quick to notice if someone’s being left out and subtly bring them into the fold. It’s about creating a sense of belonging and community, showing respect for everyone’s presence and contribution.
11. They Respect Personal Space and Boundaries.
They understand that everyone has their comfort zone, and they’re careful not to overstep. In conversations and interactions, they’re attentive to cues that someone might need a bit of space, and they adjust accordingly. This respect for personal boundaries goes a long way in making people feel comfortable and safe around them. It’s about recognizing and honoring the invisible lines that define personal comfort.
12. Their Humor Never Comes at Someone Else’s Expense.
They steer clear of jokes that might be offensive or hurtful. Their ability to be funny without being demeaning is a true skill, making their company enjoyable and inclusive. It’s a way of spreading laughter and joy that everyone can be a part of, without making anyone the butt of the joke.
13. They Offer Help Without Expecting Anything in Return.
They lend a hand because they genuinely want to, not because they’re looking for favors down the line. Whether it’s helping a colleague with a project or assisting a friend in need, their actions are driven by a genuine desire to help. This selfless approach is a mark of true respect for other people, as it comes from a place of wanting to support and uplift those around them.
14. They’re Quick to Mediate Conflicts.
They have a knack for de-escalating conflicts, finding common ground, and promoting understanding. Instead of adding fuel to the fire, they look for ways to calm the waters. Their approach to conflict resolution shows a deep respect for maintaining harmony and resolving issues in a constructive manner.
15. They Acknowledge Their Mistakes and Learn from Them.
When they mess up, they own it, apologize, and genuinely strive to learn from the experience. It’s not about preserving their ego; it’s about growth and improvement. This humility and willingness to admit when they’re wrong is a sign of deep respect for themselves and everyone around them. It shows they’re committed to personal development (a game-changer as Forbes points out!) and value the lessons that come from making and acknowledging errors. This attitude earns them respect and keeps things honest.