Back when I first started out as an entrepreneur, I thought that if everyone liked me, then business would automatically thrive.
I said “yes” to every favor my clients asked for.
Avoided tough conversations with employees.
Tried to be the “nice guy” in every room.
But the truth is, people-pleasing nearly sank me.
I lost time, money, and sleep because I was more afraid of conflict than I was committed to my mission.
The moment I decided to demand respect from myself, my team, and my clients everything changed.
I share this with you because if you keep chasing approval of being liked you’ll end up stuck in business and life.
But if you stick to high standards, you can still be caring without giving up your vision.
That’s when people start respecting you at the highest level.
Often liking you more, not less, because they see you refuse to compromise who you are.
Look, I get it.
It’s human nature to want to be liked.
But the thing is being liked only goes so far if people don’t respect you too.
‘Liked’ might get you invited to parties, but ‘respected’ earns you a seat at the table.
Respect isn’t about yelling or acting like you’re in charge all the time.
Real leaders face problems by:
- Addressing issues as soon as they appear
- Tackle poor performance with constructive feedback
- Keep everyone (including themselves) accountable
That’s how you earn true respect.
And many times your team will like you more for your honesty and clarity.
When you stop seeking validation and start demanding respect, you become a magnet for high-performers, better clients, and bigger opportunities.
Because people crave leaders who stand firm and guide them toward real success.
Not the buddy who says “yes” to avoid conflict.
Talk soon,
Bedros Keuilian
P.S. If you want to dive deeper into what it really takes to lead with both likability and respect, join me at BK LIVE 2025.
It’s a one-day event where we’ll break down the exact strategies and mindset shifts you need to become an unstoppable leader.