Respect is always earned. This is really a question about motivation. All people, even when hardened in greed and selfishness, will acknowledge that respect is earned and that one should lead by example. This is because if one feels successful, that person is convinced he or she has earned respect and is leading by example, and if one feels unsuccessful, he or she is convinced of the opposite. What a person believes to be appropriate motivation in achieving success is perhaps what is really in question. Is it is always possible to be loving and inspiring in attaining success? The apostle Paul stated:
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting [refuting] those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14
We would all do well in following Paul's example, as he shared that Jesus Christ, who loved and inspired in all that he did, was his leader by example. Although not all people are convinced of Paul's positive message, the entire business community is convinced that there is always room for self-improvement and better people skills. What is considered better and improved, however, is an individual decision based on one's prior learning and acquired values.
Choosing the right sources of learning in life can set a person on a better path. Fame, reputation, and wealth are only superficial, setting our thoughts on things above is vital. It is this source of learning which yields a miracle-filled lifestyle.
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:1-4