10 Subtle Habits That Prove You Were Raised Right-Even If You Don’t Realize It

In a speeded up world that sees respect, empathy and good manners as passe we have in us people who still put forth kindness, humility and thoughtfulness. These do not always perform grand gestures or put their values out there for all to see, but what they do say a great deal, also they are often not aware of it. These small almost automatic actions are not only a sign of good character but a product of a respectful brought up which they may not always be conscious of.

If you grew up with strong values, it is very likely that you still do some things without thinking, which in turn other people see and also notice actions like holding the door open for a stranger or a simple act of offering your help when not asked of which you are a pro. Which in the end report more on how your parents raised you and your character than any words ever could.

1. Go out of your way to say Please and Thank You

It may seem elementary but what is put forth in terms of courtesy isn't as present as it used to be. If you are the type of person who brings out the politeness in all of your interactions with cashiers, wait staff, delivery drivers, or even strangers, it is a tell that respect was a part of your upbringing. This is not to say we are discussing social protocol, but that you are aware of the value in others and do not take thoughtfulness for granted.

2. You Return Your Shopping Cart

It may be a small action but returning your cart is an act of accountability. That goes beyond the idea of putting things away for the next shopper; it is also about recognizing that what you do affects others. Those that grow up to value public spaces do in fact develop out of that a sense of greater good which they live by even when no one is watching.

3. You open the door for others

You don't do it for fame. You notice someone behind you and you hold the door open, that's just what is right. This simple action shows that you are brought up to be attuned to other people and to put out small acts of kindness that go beyond expectation. It is a natural thing for you to do which not all people do.

4. You Keep the Place Clean  In Public Also

Whether at home after eating, you're cleaning the tabletop or throwing garbage in the right bin, you do so because it is a display of self-respect and of respect for others. At home is where these behaviors begin, also at a time you were put in charge of your own mess and made a part of the routine of a clean environment.

5. You talk less than you listen

Being present as a good listener is a sign of emotional maturity, empathy, and also of great interest in the well-being of others. Those who were brought up with respect also know the times to put in words what they think and feel and the times to just listen. It was instilled in them that each person has something of value to add and that active listening is an act of respect.

6. At your approach, you make eye contact and I extend a firm handshake

In terms of body language, which includes eye contact, a firm handshake, or just a smile these are very powerful social signals. These are habits that project confidence, honesty, and connection, which in turn are a result of parents who stressed the value of strong people skills and mutual respect.

7. You say excuse me at times when it is not needed

In a crowded room, you pass by people with a simple "Excuse me". I cough in public which is an automatic response to which I say sorry. These aren't forced actions but rather what is second nature from a young age to be considerate. That is a sign of a very present in your thinking upbringing which was focused on the doings that also take into account the needs of others.

8. You Respect Elders Without Question 

Whether we see an elderly person get the head of the line or notice that a person is speaking to them with respect we are seeing a very common form of that out which is almost in short supply. If you find that you, of your own accord, are very patient with older folks and also that you are very respectful of them, it is a sign that your parents raised you well to value that which comes with age and to honor it.

9. You own up without putting blame on others

Owning up to your mistakes, putting forth sincere apologies, and using them as learning experiences is a sign of strong moral fiber. If you find yourself saying "That was my mistake" or "I should have acted differently" at ease, you have internalized accountability, a trait which is likely a result of caregivers who stressed integrity over ego.

10. First to pitch in

In all that we do, from giving up our seat to those who have greater need, to which we pick up that which someone has dropped, to checking in on a friend that is down, you are present and present in a deep way. This we see as a result of your upbringing which instilled in you the ability to see beyond yourself and into the needs of those around you and to respond with action not just words.

Why What You Do Daily Adds Up More Than You Think

While what may appear to be small actions are in fact great indicators of the values you live by, values that you may have picked up from your parents, caregivers, or mentors. These behaviors become a part of your daily routine not because they are required of you, but because they were put out there as examples for you to follow and put into practice throughout your childhood.

In this age which is dominated by self-interest, these small constant acts of respect, kindness, and accountability stand out. They are silent testimonies to the base that you bring up, laying a base that still plays a role in how you interact with the world.

You may not be aware of how large an impact which choice you make has, but others certainly do. In fact, that is what brings people to you, what builds trust, and what grows your relationships out. It also serves as a note that the best in all of us comes from within not the grand moments, but the small things we take with us every day.

Silent Proof of a Booming Legacy

Raising rights is not about achievement or doing it all. It is about instilling values that become a part of who you are like humility, kindness, and respect. If you see these in yourself in even the smallest degree, give yourself that which is due. Also, it is very important to recognize the people that played a role in shaping you into a person who puts in a little bit of that which makes the world a better place, one respectful act at a time.