Humility in Leadership: Strength or Weakness?
Can a humble leader be decisive or assertive?
Part VI: The G.R.O.W.T.H Framework: Redefining Success in Leadership so that you can lead with renewed purpose and passion!
H stands for Humility
“True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” — C.S. Lewis
Imagine a leader — confident, commanding, and charismatic.
Now, add humility to that image.
Does it diminish their strength?
On the contrary, it amplifies it.
Humility in leadership is not about self-deprecation; it’s about self-awareness.
It’s recognizing that you don’t have all the answers and that your perspective is not the only one that matters.
This understanding is crucial because it transforms the way leaders interact with their teams, make decisions, and drive change.
The Emotional Depth of Humility
Let’s delve into the world of stories, where humility isn’t just a trait, but a catalyst for emotional depth and loyalty. Picture a leader who, despite their accomplishments, sits down with their team, asks for feedback, and listens — genuinely listens. This isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a display of strength. It tells the team, “Your voice matters.” It’s this humility that builds an unshakeable foundation of respect and trust.
Consider the story of a CEO of a Fortune 500 company who decided to anonymously join an entry-level training session. This act, a true test of humility, allowed them to understand the challenges their employees faced, leading to transformative policy changes. Such stories aren’t mere anecdotes; they are powerful examples of how humility can redefine the dynamics of leadership.
The Controversial Edge
Now, let’s stir the pot a bit. Some argue that humility is a hindrance in the cutthroat world of business. “How can a humble leader be decisive or assertive?” they ask. To them, I say, humility is not about shying away from tough decisions; it’s about making informed, empathetic decisions. A humble leader doesn’t just decide for the team; they decide with the team. This collaborative approach may seem slower, but it’s exponentially more effective and sustainable.
Reflecting on Your Leadership Style
As we reach the culmination of this exploration, I invite you to pause and reflect. Think about your leadership journey.
How often do you seek out opinions that challenge your own?
When was the last time you admitted a mistake to your team and learned from it?
These aren’t just rhetorical questions. They are mirrors reflecting the role of humility in your leadership style.
Humility doesn’t diminish your authority; it enriches it. It doesn’t make you less of a leader; it makes you a leader worth following. As you ponder these thoughts, remember that the journey to becoming a great leader is ongoing, and it often requires us to unlearn and relearn. Embrace humility, not just as a trait, but as a strategic asset in your leadership toolkit.
As you close this blog and return to your world of leadership, carry with you this powerful insight: humility, in its silent strength, can be the most deafening call to action for transformative leadership.
How will you let it shape your journey?
Magdalena’s Manifesto:
I am the voice that dares to speak, ‘Lead not just with authority but with the artistry of a soul that values every human being, every connection and every interaction in every moment.’In this dance of leadership, be bold, be humble, and above all, be unapologetically YOU” Click here and let’s talk