I once had a mentor who was quite older than me. I looked to him for wisdom. One time we were at the gym. He was walking on the treadmill while I was jogging beside him. It was one of the last meetings we ever had.

I read an article that he wrote on humility and I was interested to learn more.

So I asked him, ‘How would you describe humility, Father Jim?’

He responded, ‘Humility is not thinking less of yourself. It’s thinking of yourself less.’

This truth has stood with me ever since.

In leadership I asked myself why we need humility. Why do leaders need to cultivate this virtue? Why should we care to think of ourselves less? Well I came up with three simple reasons.

# 1 – Humility is truth.

This virtue enables leaders to work in their areas of strengths and to be aware of their weaknesses. Humility says: I am talented in this area and I have a great good to offer.

#2 – Humility is attractive.

This virtue helps us to be our real selves. People want to work with leaders who are humble. Team dynamics are strengthened when leaders practice humility.

#3 – Humility is service.

This virtue brings out the best in others. It’s not about you anymore; it’s about the team and the other people you serve. The humble shall be exalted.

So I have thought to myself, how can I practice humility? Here are some practical ways to grow as a humble leader.

• Have self-knowledge;
  • Leaders should be aware of their strengths and weaknesses so they can lead others more effectively.

• Understand first before being understood;
  • Your life is not about you, it’s about others and where they’re coming from.

• Make an effort to serve out of our gifts;
  • Don’t bury that talent or area of strength that we have to offer.

• Improve in virtue everyday;
  • Good habits must be nurtured consistently because they are never mastered.

• Look for the good qualities in others;
  • We should look at the best in our neighbour, even if it’s hard.

• Imagine your future eulogy;
  • At the end of the day, we return to dust after we make our legacy. What do I want it to become?

• Take time to listen more than you speak;
  • That is why God gave us 2 ears and 1 mouth.

• Yolo, you only live once;
  • Make the most out of your life: by serving others.

A great leader is one who operates out of humility. Ask yourself, ‘What exactly do I need to change to grow in this virtue?’