Yet, it's a good idea to not get too smug in our inner-sense of accomplishment, because truth be told, it rarely lasts for long. As soon as we master one thing, something else is bound to come along proving we are but mere amateurs.
Similar to Matryoshka nesting dolls, life is imbued with lessons within lessons within lessons, even within our best experiences. To make this point, I ask, is it possible to achieve joy in our lives, without experiencing some degree of suffering; to raise our children without messing them up a little; to embrace true love without knowing heartache; or to stand solid in our convictions without accumulating regret?
It's unlikely, for it is through the struggles, the pitfalls and the pain that we reach our destinations bruised and weary, yet wiser. It is only then, that we see the beauty in our imperfection and how our poor choices led us to truth. It is only then, that we're willing to admit we don't know everything. In other words, it is through these challenges that we are humbled.
Humility is an attitude of unpretentiousness that comes from understanding our place in the larger scheme of things; rarely taking success or failure too seriously. Being humble means, turning the focus away from ourselves and recognizing we're not here to see how significant we can become, but rather to see how much difference we can make in the lives of others. Sure, compliments and praise for our achievements are wonderful, but as Adlai Stevenson once said,
as long as we don't inhale.
Here are 7 common characteristics that humble people possess:
- Good listeners: Rather than always talking or getting in the last word, they show genuine interest in what others say and are open to learning from their perspectives.
- Shows appreciation: Expresses gratitude for the help and support of others.
- Empathetic: Even in challenging situations they are able to put themselves in other people's shoes.
- Supports others: Notices when someone is struggling or having a hard day and offers words of encouragement.
- Admits mistakes: Takes responsibility when they mess up. Rather than covering it up or shifting blame, they grow from the experience.
- Shares the credit: When success is achieved, they prefer removing the spotlight off themselves and placing it on the contributions and efforts of others.
- Values feedback: Seeks feedback and constuctive critcism from others, for they view it as an opportunity for self-improvement.
Research suggests that being humble is more essential to success than our IQ score, and that it takes humility to achieve true mastery of anything. When we think we know it all, it becomes nearly impossible to learn and grow. When we can accept our shortcomings, we are better able to improve ourselves. Humility also helps build stronger relationships, because we become less critical of differing opinions, and as a result, others feel seen and heard. Lastly, humility allows us to put our lives in perspective. We are but one person is a sea of nearly 8 billion. Are we special? None of us are special, for the exact same reason that all of us are - we are unique.
Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.-C. S. Lewis