Respected or liked

Would you rather be respected or liked? Usually, I am the first to declare "false dichotomy". Suggesting that this is a false choice.

In this case, I do believe there is a hierarchy: One of those ranks as more important than the other. We cannot have both as equally important.

Re-spect is to look back. To be regarded. To have been in a way in the past, that you gain respect from the people observing you.

To be liked is of "now" experience. People liking who and what you are now. Typically a mask that is fits what Those People expect.

I, would rather be respected.