13. Using Others for Your Own Gain
People can quickly sense when they’re being treated as a means to an end rather than valued for who they are. If you only reach out when you need a favor or an advantage, you risk damaging relationships and losing respect. True connections are built on reciprocity—being there for others as much as they are there for you. Make an effort to check in on people, offer help when they need it, and support them in their endeavors without expecting anything in return. Being known as someone who genuinely cares and invests in relationships will earn you lasting respect.