Due respect.

In life and in business, respect isn’t optional. Doesn’t matter how big the opportunity is or how nice the money looks, if the people involved can’t give you the respect you deserve, it’s not worth your time. You can’t build anything with people who don’t see your value. It doesn’t matter if they smile in your face.

Respect is how people value your time, your energy, and the work you put in. If someone’s always talking down to you, dismissing your ideas, or taking more than they give, that’s exploitation. The longer you put up with it, the more you’re teaching them it’s okay to treat you like that. You start shrinking yourself without even realising it, bending to fit their standards, second-guessing yourself, trying to justify their behaviour.

Working with people who respect you changes everything. Conversations are easier, results come quicker, because both sides are genuinely committed. When you don’t have to prove yourself constantly or defend your worth, you can focus on what matters, and the progress you make becomes sustainable. Respect builds trust, and trust builds progress.

Don’t chase validation from people who don’t see your worth. Step away from partnerships, friendships, or deals where you’re ignored or undervalued. Life’s too short to shrink yourself for people who only take. It might feel uncomfortable walking away, but the clarity you gain is worth it. Only then can you start pouring your energy into people and projects that actually give back instead of draining you just for appearances.

Respect shouldn’t be something you have to beg for.