Are there things we can do that influence how others perceive us or the respect we get? Years of stumbling through life and being fascinated with human behavior answered that question for me.

Here are 14 signs that someone is highly respected, according to psychology:

1. They let others talk

Speaking less demonstrates well-being in one’s skin if it is associated with a relaxed and adds to your sense of mystery. Talking less and listening more can earn you respect in many ways, including building trust, being a better conversationalist, being open and thoughtful, being mysterious, being in control, and being a good listener.

2. They don’t move

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Fast movements and fidgeting make you appear nervous. Being relaxed and moving slowly can earn you respect by projecting confidence, composure and control. A 202 study published by Frontiers in Psychology indicates that you are not easily upset or pressured and can make thoughtful decisions even in stressful situations. This shows that you are “in the moment” and are not in a hurry to react impulsively.

3. They maintain people’s eye contact

Nothing says “I’m confident and interested in others” than holding someone’s gaze, especially a little longer than you’re comfortable with. Psychology confirms that maintaining eye contact is a sign of trust.

4. They say what others would not dare to say

Every once in a while, say something that needs to be said and that no one else dares to say. Say what you think honestly. Recently, a Harvard Business Review study looked at the impact of bold leadership and found that the greatest leaders speak up in difficult conversations, take risks, volunteer for assignments and often think unconventionally.

5. They control their emotions

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Reactive people don’t leave space between a triggering stimulus and their emotional response. Stay stoic.

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6. They are focused

Is it refreshing to see someone talking to someone who is actively paying attention? This is becoming rare. Instant respect. According to psychologyfocusing on what you can give to others, and be grateful can help you gain respect.

Respect is important because it helps people feel safe and express themselves. It also reflects two fundamental motivations of social life: the need to belong and the quest for status.

7. They are not instantly available

You don’t always need to be there or respond instantly to that text. The rarer something is, the higher its perceived value, psychology tells us.

8. They are unapologetically themselves

If there was one way to make people fall in love with you, it’s to follow your quirk. Let your quirky and fun side express itself. According to a Harvard studypeople like it when you are authentically you.

“Creatives,” she says, “live in a more vague, fluid and nebulous world,” and while “a highly original person may seem odd or strange to others…and may have to deal with criticism or rejection because it is too interrogative or too unconventional. ”, this kind of social oddity is precisely what leads people to creative breakthroughs.

9. They actively listen

Give people the space to properly process what they are saying. Wait a few more seconds. This is rare and will set you apart. People will pay attention to you when you know how to listen, research from the International Journal of Listening confirms this.

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10. They dress sharply

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What seems superficial can make a huge difference. Dress well and you will feel better and create a completely different impression rather than looking disheveled.

People form opinions about you before you speak, and your clothes are the first thing they see. Dressing well can show that you are confident, sophisticated and intelligent. When you wear clothes that make you feel good, you give off a positive vibe and people will treat you with more respect. research from the University of Texas confirms.

11. They speak deliberately

Speak more slowly and you will calm down, raise your perceived status and gain respect, research from the University of Pennsylvania confirms this.

12. They are not people pleasers

Pleasing people does not lead to increased respect. Instead, be valuable and serve people when appropriate. Psychologically, not trying to impress everyone earns you respect because it demonstrates authenticity, self-confidence, and a genuine connection with others rather than a calculated attempt to gain approval, which can often be perceived as inauthentic and manipulative.

Essentially, people value authenticity and trust those who are comfortable being themselves without needing external validation, as explained in 2013 research from the Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization.

13. They’re not afraid to take up space

People respect those who aren’t afraid to take up a little more space. By refusing to back down and knowing your worth, people will see it and follow you, research from the American Psychological Association tells us.

14. They give without expectation

Most people run around giving things to people whose expectations are tied to their “charity”. Be different. Grow your tribe by valuing one person at a time.

Giving without expectation can earn respect because it demonstrates a selfless and altruistic nature. Practicing unconditional love, or loving without expecting anything in return, can also help you gain respect, according to a 2016 study.

RELATED: 10 simple behaviors of people that inspire the greatest respect

Alex Mathers is a writer and coach who helps you build a lucrative personal brand through your knowledge and skills while remaining mentally resilient.