When considering humility it’s helpful to recall that hubris is the opposite of humility. Hubris coming from ancient Greek, ὕβρις, for pride, insolence or outrage, and less frequently said to come from the Greek, hybris, a dangerous overconfidence and complacency, often in combination with arrogance. All of which, I hope you’ll agree, are terrible traits for any leader.
Why humility?
We should want leaders with humility for a number of reasons:
- They prioritise supporting others;
- They exemplify integrity and trust;
- Collaboration is prioritised, by both modelling and encouragement;
- The promotion of others is of importance to them;
- They acknowledge their own mistakes and weaknesses;
- They rarely misuse their authority; and
- They’re the last to take credit, but the first to assume responsibility.
It’s prosocial behaviour, caring for prioritising the team’s input above their own. Giving preference to outcomes over their ego. Leading to better teams and the leader we all desire.
The low down on humility as a leader
Humility is often identified as a weakness, in the mistaken belief that it’s about a lack of confidence or self-esteem. Humility is instead the self-awareness of our flaws, knowing we make mistakes and we don’t know all the answers. You can have confidence in yourself to do the work to achieve a future goal, whilst also having the humility to question whether you’re equipped to do so in the present. Indeed studies have shown the most effective leaders are both confident and have humility.
“People with humility do not think less of themselves; they just think about themselves less.”
Ken Blanchard (The One Minute Manager)
Humble leaders don’t sit with doubt because they’re feeling like an imposter, because they recognise they have blind spots and areas they know they can improve. The doubt is born of their commitment to continual improvement. Instead of spouting their knowledge they embrace the things they don’t know, asking questions and seeking answers. They embrace curiosity, seek to learn from everyone, and adopt lifelong learning.
Hubris keeps the blinkers on, hiding the truth. Humility aids self-awareness to see oneself, allowing weaknesses to be addressed.
“A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.”
Lao Tzu (Tao Te Ching)
Humility…
Humility… allows us to better see other humans. So that we can be more compassionate and empathetic.
Humility… keeps us open to other people’s opinions and beliefs. Positively impacting our relationships and connections with others.
Humility… helps us to learn and grow – you can’t learn if you’re arrogant and think you know all.
Humility… is a growth mindset.
“A humble leader is secure enough to recognise his or her weaknesses and to seek the input and talents of others. By being receptive to outside ideas and assistance, creative leaders open up new avenues for the organization and for their employees.”
Doug Guthrie (The Paradox Of Humility In American Business And Society)
AI image generated in Canva
