Respecting Differences: Being Right in Our Own Minds

Respecting Differences: Being Right in Our Own Minds

Explore how letting go of the need to be right fosters respect and stronger relationships.

by Dr. Julie Donley

My husband and I recently started watching The Golden Girls. In one episode, Blanche’s daughter visits, pregnant via artificial insemination. She asks Blanche to be present for the birth. Blanche, raised with traditional Southern values, struggles with the idea of her daughter having a child outside of marriage. Her daughter, nearing forty and without a partner, chose this path intentionally.

This moment highlights a common issue: judgment. We often get so attached to our beliefs that we can’t imagine others seeing things differently. But can’t both people be right for themselves?

Blanche couldn’t imagine making that choice—it didn’t align with her values or life experience. Yet her daughter felt confident and empowered in her decision. Both made choices that were right for them.

Applying Respect in Leadership

This story offers a powerful lesson for leaders. In the workplace, we encounter people with different values, backgrounds, and experiences. Respect doesn’t require agreement—it means recognizing that each person’s truth is valid for them.

Strategies to Cultivate Respect at Work

• Encourage Open Dialogue​
  Create space for people to share differing views without fear of judgment. Listen actively and with curiosity.
• Embrace Diversity​
  Recognize the value of each person’s unique background and experience. Invite different perspectives.
• Model Respectful Behavior​
  Be courteous and attentive. Handle conflict with empathy and a willingness to understand.
• Set Clear Expectations​
  Communicate what respectful behavior looks like. Address disrespect promptly and consistently.
• Celebrate Differences​
  Acknowledge and uplift the unique strengths and contributions of every team member.

By creating a culture of respect, leaders foster connection, trust, and psychological safety. Just as Blanche and her daughter ultimately honored each other’s choices, we can navigate workplace differences with the same grace.

Reflect and Act

Where is judgment showing up in your leadership? Are you genuinely curious about others’ perspectives—or holding tightly to your own? Try one or two of these strategies this week. Notice how you feel when someone disagrees with you. Are you defensive? Curious? Is there a need to be right?

Letting go of that need creates space for better communication, collaboration, and connection.

Together, let’s lead with more respect—one conversation at a time.

Until next time, happy leading!

To your success,

Dr Julie

Want to learn ways to decrease your stress, navigate conflict, or present yourself more powerfully? Schedule a consult today Private Coach Sessions. Learn more on my website.

Ever wonder about my journey to being here with you today? In an interview with Humans of Fuzia, I open up about my early years, the challenges I encountered, and my journey to success. You can read the full interview here –https://humansoffuzia.com/interview/leadership-personal-development-and-resilience/​