We all crave respect in our relationships, but sometimes, it’s tough to know if we’re really getting it.
You might be in a relationship where you feel like you’re not being valued. Like your opinions don’t matter. Like you’re not being treated as an equal.
If that’s the case, I’m so sorry you’re going through it.
But don’t fret—you may actually be more respected than you think, because sometimes, respect isn’t shown in grand gestures, but in the little things we often overlook.
That’s why today, I’m sharing a few subtle signs that your partner genuinely respects you. These signs may not be glaringly obvious, but they’re important to recognize.
Before we dive in, remember: If you’re feeling disrespected, it’s crucial to address it. No one deserves to feel less than in their relationship.
Now, let’s look at some signs that your partner truly respects you.
Are you ready? Let’s begin.
1) Their words match their actions
I once dated someone who was a master at saying all the right things. He’d assure me that he respected me, valued my opinions, and saw me as an equal.
But his actions? Well, they told a different story.
He’d interrupt me mid-sentence, dismiss my ideas without really considering them, and make decisions that affected both of us without asking my opinion.
The disconnect between his words and actions was a clear sign of disrespect.
So, if your partner’s words match their actions, it’s a good sign. It shows they respect you enough to be consistent and honest in their behavior toward you.
2) They listen to you
When I was in college, I had a friend who would always listen to me.
Even when I was rambling about the most mundane things, she’d pay attention, ask questions, and show genuine interest.
It made me feel valued and respected.
This is true in romantic relationships as well. If your partner listens to you—really listens, not just nodding while scrolling through their phone—it’s a sign of respect.
They value your thoughts and feelings enough to give you their undivided attention. They don’t interrupt or make you feel like your words aren’t important. Instead, they listen and engage with what you’re saying. This is a subtle yet powerful sign of genuine respect in a relationship.
3) They consult you on decisions that affect you both
If you and your partner are able to have an equal compromise when you disagree, that speaks volumes about the respect in your relationship.
And when the respect is strong and evident, naturally, you’re more satisfied and less likely to break up. This is because shared decision-making fosters a sense of equality and mutual respect.
So, if your partner consults you on decisions—big or small—that affect you both, it’s a clear sign of respect.
4) They support your dreams and goals
When your partner not only knows your dreams and goals but also actively supports them, it’s a good sign that they highly respect you. They see you as an individual with hopes and aspirations, not just a part of their life.
This support might come in the form of encouragement, practical help, or simply being there for you during the ups and downs of your journey.
And it’s such a beautiful thing because when someone respects you enough to believe in your dreams as much as you do, it shows they value your happiness and personal growth, which is a cornerstone of genuine respect in a relationship.
5) They respect your boundaries
This is something I had to learn the hard way.
In one of my past relationships, my partner would often cross my boundaries. They’d show up unannounced, go through my phone, and make me feel guilty for spending time with friends.
At the time, I thought it was a sign of love. But I was wrong.
It was only in my next relationship that I realized what respect truly looked like. My current partner respects my personal space, understands my need for alone time, and never invades my privacy. They know where the line is drawn, and they never cross it.
So if your partner respects your boundaries – be it physical, emotional, or digital – it’s a surefire sign that they respect you. It shows they value your individuality and understand that a healthy relationship allows for personal space.
6) They show appreciation for you
Appreciation is an essential part of respect. I know because I’ve experienced it firsthand.
I remember a time when my partner thanked me for doing the dishes. It was such a small task, and I didn’t think much of it. But the fact that he took the time to thank me made me feel respected and valued.
If your partner recognizes your efforts and never fails to express their gratitude, it’s a clear sign of respect.
It doesn’t have to be grand gestures of appreciation, because it’s the simple words of thanks and the grateful smiles that can go a long way.
7) They respect your time
In my relationships, I’ve always emphasized the importance of respecting each other’s time. It shows that we value and appreciate each other’s commitments and personal lives outside of our relationship.
This is because time is one thing we can never get back, so when someone respects your time, it’s a big deal.
If your partner doesn’t cancel plans at the last minute, is usually punctual, and understands when you’re busy or need time for yourself, they truly respect you.
8) They understand your need for independence
Maintaining independence in a relationship is important for it to prosper.
If your partner respects your need for independence and encourages you to pursue activities that you enjoy alone or with others, it’s an undeniable sign of respect.
Personally, I’ve been lucky enough to have a partner who encourages me to go on solo trips, spend weekends with friends, and take part in hobbies that I love. This has not only made our relationship stronger but has also shown me how much he genuinely respects me.
9) They’re honest with you
Honesty is deeply tied to respect. If your partner is open and truthful with you, even when it’s difficult, they respect you. They trust you enough to share their thoughts and feelings and respect you enough to hear yours.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, respect is a vital aspect of any relationship. It may come in various forms – from listening attentively to respecting personal boundaries.
Recognizing these signs can help you understand whether your partner genuinely respects you. And most importantly, remember that everyone deserves respect in their relationships.
So if your partner doesn’t respect you, it’s time to take action—it’s up to you to decide whether that means confrontation or ending the relationship.
