R
especting someone's opinion or feedback doesn't necessarily mean giving into it, a common misconception I've encountered a few times lately. It means giving the information due consideration.
Consider the origin of the word (thanks, Merriam-Webster!):
Middle English, from Latin respectus, literally, act of looking back, from respicere to look back, regard, from re- + specere to look
Thank the person for their input and then evaluate it. Use what's helpful, don't use what isn't. Investing time in consideration of other opinions and points of view indicates that you think the giver is worthy of your attention. That's respect.
This view of respect is especially helpful when someone's commenting on your writing or other creative work. But it's also useful any time you're getting input from others on anything.
Related Content:
- Show, don't tell: How to give feedback on someone else's writing
- Helping reviewers help you with actionable feedback
- How to play nice