Being Considerate to Others

Being considerate is likely one of our generation's most undervalued values. If you ask someone what they value in a relationship, they are likely to respond trust, love, and commitment. We rarely perceive consideration to be a desirable trait in others. But, when you think about it, that's what keeps our relationships afloat. Being considerate is remembering to put items back in the same place you found them, or just holding the door open for the next person who will walk through.

Some individuals conflate being thoughtful with being respectful as a result of this notion. There's a narrow line between the two: being civil means doing what's expected of us, whilst being mindful of others means acting with empathy and sensitivity. In other words, it's simply being nice to people because you want to, not because you've been taught to.

We may not know it, but we have a tendency to forget how to be considerate of others. Some even go so far as to suggest that consideration for others is a lost art. In fact, take a look around you right now to observe how we've evolved into the "Me, me, me!" age. We've become a people that are preoccupied with ourselves at the expense of how we interact with others. But don't think for a second that we're doomed; there's still time to turn things around.

Check out the following examples of how to be respectful of others and see if you're performing any of them:

Pay close attention to them

When others share their experiences and thoughts with you, it shows that they appreciate your opinion and time. As a result, pay attention to them with purpose. Demonstrate your interest in the person by validating their views or responding at the proper times. Some people neglect to listen during conversations and sometimes take over the topic. Keep your responses for later to avoid this. Interrupting someone who is speaking is never a good idea.

Honesty in a tactful way

Consider how you should frame your viewpoint when it's your turn to speak. Considerate people consider what they say and are aware that there is always a better way to convey something. While most people admire honesty, it is still preferable to conduct it with tact. People appreciate it when we share the truth, but if we use the incorrect words, we might still upset them. Instead of stating, "You did it wrong," say, "You can try again." Keep in mind that our words have the potential to hurt others. We can be correct but still say things incorrectly.

Observant of their surroundings

People that are considerate are aware of the importance of etiquette. Close your mouth and chew. When someone is speaking, pay attention. When your mouth is full, do not speak. In public places, do not spit or trash... The list goes on and on. For a reason, all of these were taught at home and in school. Because doing the contrary is impolite and inconsiderate, these are the proper actions to take. Consider it this way: you should always be deliberate in your actions. If you care about being clean, well-mannered, and well-behaved, your behaviours should reflect that. All it takes is a clear understanding of what is appropriate and what is not.

Taking into account the time of others

When meeting up with loved ones, or worse, colleagues and bosses, most of us have lied about where we are and what time we will arrive. We don't like wasting our time, therefore it's only fair that we don't do it to others. Never make someone wait past the agreed-upon time. This will communicate to them that you do not value your commitment and that you do not value them enough to show there on time. Simply imagine yourself in the shoes of others—how would you react if someone was late for a meeting?

Anticipating the wants of a loved one

This attitude is the best example of what it means to be considerate. What better way to demonstrate your care for others than to anticipate their needs? Anticipating other people's requirements will make them feel as if you genuinely care about them and have considered their needs. It is, without a doubt, the most powerful statement of love.

Before passing judgement, try to empathise.

It's all too simple for some folks to pass judgement on another person based on a few things they hear or see. Forming an opinion without viewing the entire picture—both the positive and terrible details—is simply immature. To be thoughtful of others, all you have to do is empathise. Consider why someone acts the way they do. Is she quiet simply because she dislikes your company, or is it possible that anything horrible happened before you met? Some relationships can be ruined by jumping to conclusions. Let's not risk getting to that point by merely showing empathy.

When it's appropriate, apologize

Sometimes we make serious errors and cause harm to others. It could be due to a mistake in judgement, or it could be due to a lack of respect in which we failed to consider the other person's feelings. We must confess that saying "I'm sorry" is difficult, but it is usually exceeded by the consequences of our pride. Instead of jeopardising your relationships, we'll just say it (and mean it!) out loud. It is not a sign of weakness to apologise. Strengths include admitting your faults and seeing how they have affected others.

Being respectful of others may be a rare trait, but it is unquestionably a teachable one. “Less of me, more of others” can be re-framed and taught into our thinking. Consideration is merely the application of thoughtfulness. So be considerate. Nobody ever loses by being aware of how those around them are feeling. What can you do right now to make yourself kinder and more thoughtful?