Humility

Humility is a character trait in which a person has an accurate and modest self-opinion along with a sincere regard for the abilities and needs of others. It is sometimes defined as being humble, which means a person does not feel or act superior to or better than others. The term is sometimes used to indicate that someone is of lower status or is meek and unassertive. However, none of these encompasses the full meaning of the word. Humility is also considered a specific and desirable virtue in some religious traditions.

Background

The word humility comes from Latin through Old French. The Latin humilitas, meaning “low,” or “humble,” became humilite in Old French and meant “humble.” This became humility in Middle English between the twelfth and sixteenth centuries and had a similar meaning as it does today.

In the days of Ancient Greece and Rome, humilitas was not seen in a favorable light. It was associated more with failing and being defeated, shamed, or embarrassed—all concepts more in line with the contemporary word humiliation. It was not viewed as a virtue. Instead, it was the attitude one would take before an acknowledged superior, whether that was a god or a conquering enemy. Both the Romans and Greeks saw it as perfectly appropriate to be proud of one’s accomplishments and to both seek and welcome honors and accolades.

The idea of humility being a desirable trait is thought to have begun in the Biblical writings and beliefs of the ancient Hebrews around the second century BCE. Over many centuries, the Hebrews were conquered and oppressed by their enemies. They knew the negative connotations of humilitas very well and often demonstrated it toward those who had authority over them. Some Jewish teachers began advancing the idea that people should treat the poor and those who were of lower stature than they were with the same deference and respect.

This remained a radical concept, however, and it was not accepted by society. This began to change with the teachings of Jesus Christ in the first century CE and the rise of Christianity as a religion. Christians believe Jesus is God and therefore cannot fail, be defeated, or have anything about which to be shamed or embarrassed. However, he was executed in what was considered the most shameful and degrading way. Prior to his death, Christian tradition teaches that Jesus took the role of a slave and washed the feet of his disciples. His followers saw this as evidence that humility was a virtuous and honorable trait. As Christianity began to grow, this concept spread with it until it became part of much of Western civilization.

Overview

In contemporary times, humility is considered a positive personality trait that benefits individuals and those around them. Those who do not exhibit humility are sometimes seen as too aggressive, overbearing, or narcissistic. Narcissists have excessive pride in themselves or their accomplishments and see themselves as being better than others. People who lack humility can be and sometimes are very successful. However, experts say this makes it harder for others to live and work with them. Humility is increasingly seen as a desirable trait for leaders in all fields.

Experts have identified a number of ways that cultivating an attitude of humility helps leaders, especially those in business. When a person can self-identify areas of strength and weakness, it increases the ability to learn and become more effective. Having humility allows a person to admit mistakes and faults and to share credit with others. It also allows a person to recognize when someone is as capable or more capable of completing a task, or when someone else has a good idea about how to accomplish that task. This not only aids in accomplishing tasks efficiently but it also helps to encourage others to develop their own skills and abilities.

While it might seem that those who are ambitious and never acknowledge mistakes will be viewed as stronger or more capable, experts say that leaders who exhibit humility are more likely to be seen as trustworthy and likable. It is easier for people to connect with those who demonstrate humility. Leaders with humility recognize the accomplishments and contributions of others, and this makes them more likable. Instead of being seen as a sign of weakness, humility is often seen as a sign of personal strength. It generally leads to respect and admiration from others and helps develop more positive relationships.

Developing humility can begin in childhood. Parents can help children learn to acknowledge when they make mistakes or when they do not know something. Learning to ask for and give forgiveness is another important aspect of developing the traits of humbleness and humility. Realizing that it is okay to be imperfect and that everyone can improve their own abilities in various skills will lead to an attitude of humility. Acknowledging the strengths and skills of others and learning not to be threatened when others excel at something are also keys to developing humility.

There can be a negative side to having humility, especially when a person is in a situation where humility is seen as a very desirable virtue or even a job requirement. People in service professions, especially caregivers and clergy whose jobs generally require them to put others above themselves, sometimes develop problems because of it. Their natural humility can sometimes make it difficult for them to recognize when their own needs should take priority. As a result, some people in these professions can suffer from stress of the same intensity as post-combat war veterans. In this case, humility requires people to acknowledge their own need for a break or the need to ask others for help.

Bibliography

Austin, Michael W. “Humility.” Psychology Today, 27 June 2012, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ethics-everyone/201206/humility. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Barlow, Rich. “Studying the Benefits of Humility.” BU Today, 27 Mar. 2017, www.bu.edu/today/2017/studying-the-benefits-of-humility. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Blain, Tiara. "Why Is It Important to Stay Humble?" 30 Apr. 2024, VeryWell Mind, www.verywellmind.com/why-is-it-important-to-be-humble-5223266. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Dickson, John. “How Christian Humility Upended the World.” ABC Religion and Ethics, 27 Oct. 2011, www.abc.net.au/religion/how-christian-humility-upended-the-world/10101062. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Pardue, Stephen. “The Other Benedict Option: Humility.” Christianity Today, 3 Aug. 2018, www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2018/august-web-only/benedict-option-humility-public-engagement.html. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

“17 Reasons Humility Will Help You Get Ahead.” Forbes, 17 Oct. 2017, www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2017/10/17/17-reasons-humility-will-help-you-get-ahead/#77ba8b25ac3a. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Taylor, Bill. “If Humility Is So Important, Why Are Leaders So Arrogant?” Harvard Business Review, 18 Oct. 2018, hbr.org/2018/10/if-humility-is-so-important-why-are-leaders-so-arrogant. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Wehner, Peter. “The Quiet Power of Humility.” New York Times, 15 Apr. 2017, www.nytimes.com/2017/04/15/opinion/sunday/the-quiet-power-of-humility.html. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

“What Is Humility?” Common Sense Media, 2 June 2020, www.commonsensemedia.org/character-strengths-and-life-skills/what-is-humility. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.