What Is The Golden Rule of Life?

Do you feel bothered when people are mean to you for no apparent reason? No one appreciates it when they are being left out or spoken to in a bad way. But have you ever sat down and wondered whether you are making someone else feel the same way?

You may have heard countless times from your elders to treat people the same way you want to be treated—and that, my friend is THE GOLDEN RULE OF LIFE. 

In this article, we will explore the true meaning of this powerful principle and how you can implement it in your life.

What Is The Golden Rule?

The golden rule is a principle that highlights that one should always treat others the way they want to be treated themselves. In short, if you want respect from people, you should first learn to give respect.  

This principle is named ‘the golden rule’ for a reason. It focuses on creating a good social environment where everybody is treated with dignity and respect. This rule has been greatly ignored and implemented in various ways throughout the history of humankind to shape people’s actions. 

Types of the Golden Rule 

There are three main ways in which the golden rule can formulate. We will briefly define each below.

Empathetic or Responsive Form 

This form states that if you wish something—either good or bad—upon others, you are wishing the same for yourself. For example, if you wish bad for someone, you are apparently wishing it for yourself too. 

Positive or Directive Form 

This formulation of the principle denotes that you should treat others the same way you would want to be treated. If you want politeness from someone, start treating people with politeness. 

Negative or Prohibitive Form 

This form of the rule suggests that you should always treat people the way you would not like to be treated. If you don’t want people to be disrespectful towards you, start treating people around you with respect and love. 

How Can You Implement The Golden Rule In Your Life?

You can implement this rule using various techniques. We are listing down some ideas below:

• Start using self-distancing language in situations where it is hard to assess what is going on. For instance, if you are in an argument with someone, take a moment and ask yourself “am I saying things that I can’t take myself?” or “how would I feel if someone said these things to me or to my loved one?” This will help you assess the situation better and handle things in a different way.

• Try to formulate a list. If you are determined on shaping your life according to the golden rule, create a list highlighting things to do and things not to do.

• You can also use the platinum rule where instead of treating people the way you want to be treated; you could ask them how they wish to be treated. This will help you understand people around you better!