What is humility?
The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines humility as “Freedom from pride or arrogance”, it’s the quality or state of being humble. The word ‘humble’ is derived from the Greek word ‘Humus’ or earth. In inference therefore a humble person is a ‘grounded’ person. In pursuit of empathy, humility today is a much wanted quality in leaders today. It’s the new management mantra. We often hear about leaders like Azim Premji or Ratan Tata “See, how humble they are”. Leadership is a great responsibility and not a privilege. Leaders are meant to lead people and purposes with their talent and abilities for the common good. Leaders are essentially meant to bring out the best in their employees.
Look back at your own life. How have you reacted to arrogant leaders or colleagues? Have you not worked better with humble bosses? There is one thing for sure. When you become proud and arrogant you stop learning and growing. Because, you are always right! Humility inspires inclusivity and teamwork but also makes you easy to approach and easier to get along with. Develop a positive attitude towards humility. Accept humility as your personality trait. Evolve to a ‘Humilty Mindset’ . Here are a few fundamental and easy steps you can take.
Go beyond- I, me, myself
Self-obsession is not good but the pride in doing good work is something else. For most of us our self takes front seat. Ego clouds everything else. Humility blooms where there is no ego and the mind is open and inclusive. Set your mind to accept inputs, suggestions and let your leadership style be merit based. There are extremes and you should balance your approach. Don’t become a monk, self-interest is important but remember the mind is like a parachute, it works best when it’s open. Go beyond – I, me and myself. It’s a positive stride towards humility. Humility is a great strength of character. Develop a ‘Humility Mindset’
Keep learning
Learning never stops. What you learn yesterday gets outdated today. Change continues to be the only constant. Humble leaders always learn and are open to new suggestions, even experiment. So open your mind to active listening, be humble to be flexible. And lead by example, keep learning and create a learning environment. Be humble to keep pace with technology and advancements, especially the digital world. Use your Humility Mindset to leverage learning. Believe me, you can learn from anyone. Your nephew or niece can teach you simple new things. Today’s Z gen are very advanced. Accept criticism with open arms. When you are humble, you have no airs.
Be grateful, be polite
Humility comes with its own behavioural jewels. Gratitude, politeness and etiquette. When you are devoid of arrogance and pride, you become grateful and tolerant. You recognise human values and see the talent and goodness around you with an open mind. Practicing humility you actually evolve to become a better human being. Humility and tolerance are part of teachings of many religions across the world. There is a new paradigm in human behaviour today. From Emotional Quotient to Spiritual Quotient. SQ is a sought after quality in leadership talent nowadays. Being grateful and polite increases your acceptance with people. Not only do people seek you out more, you actually become more popular with friends and family also!
Practice acceptance
Above all else, you can truly become more humble if you practice acceptance. Accepting is on many dimensions and needs you to be naturally flexible. People who are not humble are rigid. They want things to be done their way always. Here the one giant step you can take towards your Humility Mindset goal- accept what happens. Accept people and situations for what they are and create your own moves accordingly. Adopting a Humility Mindset comes with its own bunch of benefits. Peace of mind and happiness are its first natural consequences.
“True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.”
Rick Warren
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