The Best Leaders Act with Humility
Actions speak louder than words.
An old country song says, “Lord, it’s hard to be humble, when you’re perfect in every way!” Although we jokingly wish that everybody was as perfect as we are, we need to remember that humility is not about us. It’s a deep regard for the personal dignity of others.
Humility is also much more than a feeling or an attitude.
It shows up in what we do. It is apparent in how we speak and act with others. And it’s very difficult to fake, because people sense how we really feel.
Effective leaders prioritize humility by displaying a deep regard for others’ dignity.
The key word in this statement is “display”. The leader acts in a way that tells others they are worthy and valued. When humble leaders speak, they talk less about themselves and ask questions to learn more about other people.
To advance dignity we need to be curious and show interest in other people’s views.
This is especially true when relating to people with whom we may disagree or who are verbally attacking us or those around us. Drawing on Rudyard Kipling’s poem, “If,” you are advancing dignity when:
you can stay humble when all about you are self-absorbed
you quietly trust your own sense of self-worth when others doubt you
you can accept criticism without blaming or demeaning others.
Developing leadership skills that display a deep regard for the self-worth of others turns the idea of advancing dignity into reality:
Start by reflecting on your own self-worth.
Expand your recognition to the personal dignity inherent in others.
Develop relational skills such as being present to others, using active listening, accepting different perspectives, building relationships with those different than ourselves, being receptive to new ideas, and prioritizing humility in our words and actions.
Now you are ready to promote dignity in your family, your work, and your community.
High regard for others’ dignity is the best asset a leader has to positively influence an organization. It’s worth the effort it takes.
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And that’s The Gist of It™ - Ideas to advance dignity, practice humility, and develop leaders of character and integrity.
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Marilyn Gist, PhD