During a recent television interview profiling the CEO of a global property restoration company, he not only talked about the success of the business he built from the ground up, but also about the one task he is devoted to completing daily.
Every morning, the CEO signs birthday cards for employees celebrating that day and, when possible, includes a personal note. He initially started the process when his team was comprised of just nineteen employees. Today, thousands work for him around the world. When asked why he takes the time to focus on this task when there are many other important issues for him to address each day, he stated that it is important to him to stay humble. It is very possible that this CEO has a loyal team behind him because his actions show that he genuinely cares about those who support him, not just himself and his accomplishments.
So, what does being humble mean exactly?
Having humility in your life and work means that you believe, no matter your title, bank account balance, or material possessions, that you are not better than those around you.
Being humble means:
You understand the difference between confidence and arrogance.
You set clear core values for yourself, base your daily actions on those values, and no matter the temptation to stray from those values, you stay true to your mission of being a positive influence on those around you.
You take time to mentor others by first pointing out their unique talents and strengths, and then guiding them to find their passion and place in the world.
You never forget those who have helped you along the way by checking in with them on a regular basis to determine if there is a way you can help them achieve greatness.
You greet those who cross your path with genuine curiosity about how they really are, no matter their title, role, or wealth status.
You have a willingness to always learn, and never believe you know it all about anything.
While navigating our way through an often competitive world and workplace, it can be tempting to boast about our achievements or focus only on ourselves as a way to stand out. But is that truly the best way to live?
Being humble is not a weakness. Instead, it is a strength that can serve as a trusted guide with a purpose of gently reminding you that life is more than material objects and professional accomplishments. Leading with humility is about being kind, focusing out instead of in, sharing recognition, and practicing gratitude for all the gifts life brings you every day.
“Being humble means recognizing that we are not on earth to see how important we can become but to see how much difference we can make in the lives of others.”
--Gordon B. Hinckley
Vicky DeCoster is a Certified Life Coach based in Omaha, Nebraska, who specializes in helping her clients both locally and nationwide to move past obstacles, create a plan for happiness, and cross the bridge of transition to find a new and fulfilling direction in life. To read more about her and her practice, visit her at crossthebridgecoaching.com.
