Get treated with more respect

If you're dating someone who continues to treat you poorly, drop him.

One of the worst things that can happen to you in a relationship is to be disrespected. If someone isn't treating you as an equal or with the respect you deserve -- whether it's someone you just met or someone you know well -- he needs to change his behavior or pack up and move on. Here are a few ways to ensure you don't get slighted by anyone.

1. Project confidence
Even if you don't feel confident, you're going to have to at least pretend. Confident people command attention and respect, so even if you need to work a little harder at feeling self-assured, it's worth it in the end. The more positive and sure of yourself you are, the less chance you have of attracting someone who won't treat you well.

2. Don't put up with poor treatment
Don't allow yourself to be treated like a maid, an object or someone to be bossed around. If you feel like someone is walking all over you or making you feel inadequate, put a stop to it. If you're dating someone who continues to treat you poorly despite your explaining that it's not right, drop him. He's not worth your time.

3. Don't be wishy-washy
Being overly indecisive leads people to assume you don't have a mind of your own and tempts them to take advantage. Don't be a doormat. If you don't like something or don't want to go somewhere, make it known. Your opinion matters, so don't keep it inside. The more direct and decisive you are, the more respect you'll command.