Leadership: Humility

Humility is said to be the mother of all virtues. It is said to be the most powerful and important attribute of growth; both personal and professional growth. Effective leaders in all sectors are said to be humble. Humility in leaders makes them more trusted, respected, easier to follow and ultimately leads to their being successful.

Humility is the quality of having a modest or low view of one's importance. It is being compassionate, sympathetic, or of generous behavior or disposition. Thomas Aquinas, a 13th-century philosopher and theologian in the Scholastic tradition, defines humility similarly as "the virtue of humility" that "consists in keeping oneself within one's own bounds, not reaching out to things above one, but submitting to one's superior".

Is Humility beneficial at the Workplace?

Being humble at work is important because it can help you become a better teammate with your coworkers. Humility at work can help you in the workplace the following areas:

• Collaboration: Humble employees can be more open to working with other people, valuing the insights and contributions of others. Rather than viewing your coworkers as competitors, you see them as a part of your team, working towards a common goal.
• Support: Being humble at work can help you support and celebrate the victories of your peers, rather than resent them. You can recognize when your coworkers deserve praise, and you are happy to provide it for a job well done.
• Relationships: When you're humble at work, it can be easier to build genuine relationships with your colleagues, improving workplace morale.
• Reputation: Being humble at work can enhance your reputation as a person with integrity.

Ways Leaders may cultivate Humility

• Embrace your Humanness
• Practice mindfulness and self compassion
• Express gratitude always

Simple Ways Leaders may express Humility at Work

• Think of yourself less
• Be of service to others
• Admit it when you are wrong
• Ask for help when you need it
• Do the next right thing
• Do not care who gets the credit
• Ask, Do not TELL
• Exercise moderation in all things
• Be Honest
• Always BETTER yourself
• Explore Spirituality in whatever context you imagine it
• Be Open minded

Humble leaders use their skills, knowledge and experience to bring people together to increase sales, improve production or quality, and give back to the community. Leaders who come from humility use their success for the greater good, rather than for self-aggrandizement.

Keep It Simple and Short