Respect is earned. Friendship can be bought.

Since I watched this video a few weeks back, I’ve been reflecting on the simple question: Would you rather be well-liked, or well-respected?

The difference between being respected and being liked lies in how it is achieved.

Let Richie McCaw tell you.

If you watch the video, the answer is obvious. Respect is what pushes us forward. Respect is what lasts. The same can be said for teaching, as well as being a parent.

Through your actions, through your attitude, respect is earned. It’s not laid up on a platter for you. It takes hard work and determination to be respected, over a long time at that.

And it lasts.

Respect well-earned is not easily forgotten.

Being liked is similar to friendship. Friendship can be bought. The term fair-weather friends exists for a reason. It’s only temporary. It doesn’t have to be earned through hard work, but it can be earned through flattery and bribes.

Work to be respected first. Worry about friendship later. If you feel like it.