Growing in Humility

by; Ame-Phil O. Saquiban

​What makes it difficult to fully acknowledge one’s limitations or mistakes, be willing to accept the help offered, and be generous in giving genuine appreciation to others? How challenging it can be sometimes to welcome feedback, criticisms, or suggestions for improvement as well as bright ideas from others. What worries us the most to consider others betters than ourselves? These are some of the areas that we can start reflecting on if we are to commit to growing in humility.
 
While the concept of humility is sometimes perceived as a sign of weakness when assumed that it is about having a poor opinion of oneself, low self-esteem, or a display of vulnerability, being humble is a strength and a powerful trait of a leader or any person of influence. Studies in recent years reveal that leading with integrity inspires collaboration, better job performance, and employee engagement. Humility makes a person willing to see oneself accurately (strengths and weaknesses), be receptive to feedback, and learn from others (Owens, et al., 2013).
 
Embracing humility keeps us grounded regardless of the accolades we have or have not received or the successes we have achieved or have yet to achieve for humility is “characterized by a low focus on the self, an accurate (not over or underestimated) sense of one’s accomplishments and worth, and an acknowledgment of one’s limitations, imperfections, mistakes, gaps in knowledge, and so on” (APA Dictionary of Psychology). It guards us from falling into the pit of pride and arrogance, as well as from feeling inferior.
 
Albert Einstein once said, “The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know.” This simple yet profound statement reflects the humility of a person known for his brilliance. This reminds us of a proverb that states, “With humility comes wisdom” (Proverbs 11:2). From a position of teachability that is void of self-glory, we can produce new and innovative ideas, come up with wise decisions, and sincerely address issues and concerns that derail progress and development around us.
 
Growing in humility leads to never-ending learning in all facets of life, including public service. Let us build one another in a way that acknowledging one’s limitations or mistakes will no longer be difficult, constructive feedback will be welcomed, the sharing of ideas and genuine appreciation will be encouraged, and esteeming others better than ourselves will be a norm. By doing so, we grow in divine wisdom. 

Reference:

• American Psychological Association (APA) Dictionary of Psychology
• Owens, B. P., Johnson, M. D., & Mitchell, T. R. (2013). Expressed humility in organizations: Implications for performance, teams, and leadership. Organization Science, 24(5), 1517–1538. https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.1120.0795