Sure, why not take a swing at one of the most generally recognized and respected pieces of wisdom that exists.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Now, this is going to get a little bit meta, but

“Do unto yourself, as you would have others do unto you” works as well. I believe it’s step one in following this rule.

We can usually articulate the way we want to be treated.

Themes of kindess, dignity, respect, and love emerge. 

People want to be treated this way.

You want to be treated this way.

But, if you wish others to treat you this way, it starts with you.

It starts with how you treat yourself.1

Treat yourself with kindness, with dignity, with respect, with love.

If needed, forgive yourself. Be patient with yourself. Pay attention to yourself.

The first step in following the golden rule is to follow it with yourself.