On Humility

“If it seems to you that you know many things and understand them well enough, know at the same time that there are many more things of which you are ignorant” 

~ Thomas a Kempis

Humility is one of THE most important modern leadership virtues. Yes, leaders know a lot, and yes, our best leaders typically get to where they are because of their integrity, courage, determination, honesty, responsibility, resilience, accountability, faith and a host of other virtues. 

This is about the absence of pride or arrogance and the ability to accurately view one’s own talents and flaws.

In the modern world, exhibiting humility opens the door to others, ushering in a sense of trust, giving space to promote new and sometimes wildly different viewpoints that free up stalled initiatives and closed cultures. I view this particular perspective as setting the table for cocreative thought and action. Knowing everything, or pursuing knowledge in a way to become all-knowing will limit you. A selfless leader is one that performs in front, from the side, back and the field with ease.