The word humility does not always invoke the feelings of exciting, fun or sexy. Perhaps that is why so many people are afraid to truly be humble. They feel they will be overlooked and underappreciated. Everyone likes to be recognized for their hard work, accomplishments and contributions. So how do you sit back and feel confident that you will get your “just due”? Try these 3 habits to work on personal humility and see how rewarding it can be.
Have an Abundance Mentality
There is plenty of spotlight and love to be shared. My favorite analogy is to think of having a birthday party. Would it be fun to be the only person at the party, getting all of the spotlight? Or is it more fun to have 20 of your closest friends there to celebrate, laugh and enjoy your day? Any five year old can answer that question for us. Parties are fun when there are other people around us and sharing the cake and some of the spotlight.
Appreciate Others
Harry S. Truman said it perfectly, “It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” Great companies have been built by amazing minds working together. They thrive and help make the world a better place. The companies can continue to flourish by sharing their wins or as we have seen too many times, egos can destroy all of that. The word I is used instead of we. Resentment builds and those same minds leave seeking a more conducive work environment where they are appreciated.
Ask for Feedback
Giving permission to your closest friends and/or co-workers to be honest about your strengths and weaknesses shows your willingness to get better. No one has all of the answers. If you are willing to truly listen to the feedback and not be defensive, growth will follow. Try to do this at least once a year. It will be a humbling and rewarding experience. Your weaknesses can become strengths and will help keep your “ego in check”.
Being humble doesn’t mean you are not confident. In fact, I believe the truly confident souls are those willing to defer the spotlight and shower others with praise. “It’s not about you”, is one of my favorite sayings. When you truly provide value to the world, there is no need for self-promotion. Those closest to you will happily spread the news. Try on your own humble suit, you might be surprised just how sexy you wear it!