You are a ‘Mean Girl’! You are a B*tch!

Respect in the Rockies.

Living in Colorado means being surrounded by breathtaking nature, an active outdoor lifestyle, and a strong sense of community. Whether it is on a mountain trail, at a local café, or in the workplace, respect is the foundation that holds everything together. It is what keeps our relationships strong and our adventures successful, no matter how challenging the terrain.

Respect is not just a nice gesture, it is essential. From the way we interact with our families to the teamwork required on the slopes or in the office, mutual respect is what makes everything tick. Let us explore how respect plays a crucial role in family, friendships, teammates, and work.

Respect in Family: From Only Child to Married Life

Growing up as an only child, you might think I was spoiled with all the attention. But, let me tell you, there’s a quiet power in understanding boundaries and the importance of treating others with kindness. Being raised with a deep respect for personal space, emotions, and opinions shaped me into someone who cherishes mutual respect in all relationships.

I have been married to my husband for 8 years, and together for 13. Respect in marriage is not just about “agreeing” on everything—it is about actively listening, valuing each other’s differences, and maintaining a shared sense of trust. Just like how we tackle an avalanche-prone trail together on our skis, we approach every challenge with the same respect and understanding. Whether it is making big decisions or sharing the load on a camping trip, mutual respect keeps us strong.

Respect in Friendships: Thirty Years of BFFs

I have been best friends with my BFF for 30 years (we are definitely not the "Mean Girls" of the mountain town scene), and if there is one thing we have learned, it is that respect for each other’s journeys and boundaries is everything. When you have spent decades together, you have seen the highs and lows—whether it is going on a wild wakeboarding trip down the Colorado River or simply being there for each other through tough times.

Respect in friendships means having your back, even when life gets rocky. It is acknowledging that our personal lives and dreams may take us in different directions but always respecting those choices. Just like on a mountain trail, we each might have our own pace, but we meet at the summit together.

Respect in Teammates: The Adventure Team

As a passionate skier and snowboarder, I know whether you are skiing down a snowy slope at Monarch Mountain or dirt biking on a rugged trail near Denver, respect for your fellow athletes’ skills and abilities is key to a smooth ride. Like choosing a green, blue, or black run, entering a new trail, or resuming your downhill descent, you are following rules acknowledging your skills, and respecting other skiers’ experiences and safety.

In group adventures, respecting the pace, limits, and comfort zones of each teammate builds trust. For example, when we go rafting on the Arkansas River, there’s an unspoken rule: respect the water, respect each other's experience, and don’t push anyone too hard. The same principle applies in any team setting, whether it is a corporate marketing meeting or a weekend getaway with friends.

Respect at Work: Navigating the Corporate Mountain

As someone who works in corporate marketing communications, I see firsthand how respect can transform a workplace. Respect at work is not just about “following the chain of command” or making polite small talk with your coworkers (though that’s important too). It is about creating a culture of trust, accountability, and open communication.

Respectful workplaces tend to have higher employee engagement, better collaboration, and greater overall productivity. According to research from Gallup, employees who feel respected at work are 2.5 times more likely to be engaged in their roles. That respect starts with listening actively, valuing different perspectives, and always remembering to “play nice” with your teammates—whether you’re brainstorming creative ideas or reviewing campaign strategies.

In the marketing world, respect for ideas and creative collaboration leads to better campaigns and stronger results. So next time you're in a meeting (or perhaps while strategizing the next viral ad campaign over a Colorado craft beer), think about how you can foster a little more respect for the diverse voices around you.

Good people naturally foster good work cultures.

Building Respect: Colorado’s Outdoor Spirit

So, what does this all have to do with Colorado life? Well, as a native of this beautiful state, I can tell you that the respect we have for our environment and each other is key to the outdoor lifestyle we love. Whether it is hiking up Mount Elbert, paddling the waters of Cherry Creek Reservoir, or simply appreciating a sunset over the Rockies, respect is ingrained in our DNA.

Our outdoor adventures teach us that nature does not discriminate, and neither should we. Respect for the trail, the river, and the wildlife ensures we all can enjoy Colorado’s beauty for generations to come. Similarly, respecting our personal relationships, teammates, and work environments contributes to a balanced and harmonious life, just like a well-timed mountain ascent.

Respect is a Two-Way Street

Finally, I want to leave you with one last thought: Respect is reciprocal. If you want respect from your friends, family, teammates, or coworkers, start by showing it. Whether you’re on the slopes, in the office, or around the campfire, mutual respect strengthens connections and deepens bonds. So next time you catch yourself quoting, "You go, Glen Coco" or "That's so fetch!”, just remember, real respect is even cooler than becoming a ‘plastic’.

Whether you are on a mountain trail, riding the Colorado waves, or collaborating with a team, friend or spouse, the spirit of respect is what keeps us all moving forward.

What is your favorite way to show respect in your life? Let me know and let us keep the conversation going!

#AltitudeAttitude

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