Six Leadership Principles for Developing Humility

In Leadership
April 13, 2020
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Leadership is
defined as ‘the process in which an individual influences the group of
individuals to attain a common goal’. The goal is attained by mutual
cooperation and cohesive behavior. A leader infuses a sense of positivity and
directs others to reach the specified goal.

There are many
characteristics that make a good and effective leader. Effective leaders should
have confidence, determination, strength of character and courage. Traits like
being decisive and being a good problem solver are also essential. But one very
important characteristic of a leader that makes them earn respect and loyalty
from their followers is: humility.

When people are
given authority over others, there is a temptation or the tendency to abuse
their power over others. Abusive and over-bearing leaders may be capable of
making people follow them out of fear. But many employees or followers leave
their companies because of arrogant and rude bosses. Ultimately, the company
suffers because of this.

There is a
clear difference between being a boss and being a leader. A leader provides
motivation for others and inspires individuals to aim high and attain a goal.
However, a boss only supervises over his subordinates. Power naturally comes to
a leader but that power is not a tool of leaders.

Humble leaders
get the work done and also gain the respect and love of their followers. This
kind of leadership gains loyalty and results in long-term harmonious working
relationships. Because of this, it is essential that every leader knows the
value of humility and keeps that in mind.

To shape a
formal leadership development program, the research suggests a curriculum
designed around six basic principles:

Know what you
don’t know – Resist “Master of the Universe” impulses. You may excel in many
things, but as a leader, rely on those who have relevant qualifications and
expertise. Know when to defer or delegate.
Resist falling
for your own publicity – We all tend to put the best spin on our success, and
then frequently forget that reality isn’t as flawless. Basking in the glory of
a triumph can be energizing, but too big a dose is intoxicating and it can blur
our vision and impair judgment.
Never
underestimate the competition – You may be brilliant, ambitious, and audacious,
but the world is filled with other hard-working, highly intelligent, and
creative professionals. Don’t let your guard down and think that they and their
innovations aren’t a serious threat.
Embrace and
promote a spirit of service – Employees (and customers) quickly figure out
which leaders are dedicated to helping them succeed, and which are scrambling
for personal success at their expense.
Listen to the
weird ideas – There’s ample evidence the most imaginative and valuable ideas
tend to come from left field, or perhaps from an employee who may seem a little
offbeat or may not hold an exalted position in the organization.
Be passionately
curious – Constantly welcome and seek out new knowledge, and insist on
curiosity from those around you. There are correlations between curiosity and
many positive leadership attributes, including emotional and social
intelligence. Take it from Albert Einstein: “I have no special talent,” he
claimed, “I am only passionately curious.”

Humble leaders
are the leaders of tomorrow. They do not assume they know everything. They do
not assume ultimate control over everyone else. They are empowered and
powerful, but this power is achieved differently than it has been in the past.

Humble leaders
connect with others at a human level. They’re open-minded, collaborative and
listen to others. They create an atmosphere of trust, respect and equality.
Everyone and every business can succeed under humble leadership.