“Life is a long lesson in humility.”
There are many successful people in the world. Many people who have accomplished great things. They own empires; they speak and thousands act; they overcome and inspire and become ever greater. And they are often not happy or fulfilled.
The world we live in has not taught us humility. The world we live in teaches us that it’s all about you. We turn on the TV to watch reality shows showing the lives of rich people, and we aspire to become them. We go to the shops when we don’t have money to buy things in order to feel better. We talk about other people when there are so many things to talk about. Why? Because it feels good to put someone else down and make yourself look good. Or, it’s entertaining for a moment. We sacrifice our relationships with our family to build businesses and go to meetings we never remember. We are governed in pride, and we are selfish.
In Mere Christianity, C. S. Lewis said this about humility:
“Do not imagine that if you meet a really humble man he will be what most people call ‘humble’ nowadays: he will not be a sort of greasy, smarmy person, who is always telling you that, of course, he is nobody. Probably all you will think about him is that he seemed a cheerful, intelligent chap who took a real interest in what you said to him. If you do dislike him it will be because you feel a little envious of anyone who seems to enjoy life so easily. He will not be thinking about humility: he will not be thinking about himself at all.”
Humility isn’t beating yourself up and complaining that you are worth nothing. Humility is a healthy view of you and the world. It is a view where you know your worth, and yet you don’t esteem it as better than another.
There are a few common traits humble people share. Look at these and they may prompt you to do some self-examination:
1. Nobody else is better or worse than you.
You treat everyone the same and see everyone as a person of worth.
2. You aren’t afraid to say: “I was wrong.”
Humble people always choose the right decision over the easy one. They admit they are wrong and would rather lose approval than lie or jeopardize a relationship.
3. You build bridges not walls.
Humility doesn’t judge or separate people based on preferences. Humble people are aware of their flaws and they are open to hearing from other people, and learning from other people. They let their weaknesses become a means of connecting with others.
4. You care about leaving a legacy more than creating comfort for yourself.
Humble people care about the world they leave for their children. They sacrifice buying lots of things for a life of significance and impact.
5. You listen more than you talk.
Humble people are listeners. They don’t need the last word because they are not searching for validation and acceptance.
6. You celebrate the success of others.
Why are people so competitive instead of encouraging? Rather than uniting for a cause, we fight against each other for things that don’t always matter. Someone confident of their worth can celebrate the success of others.
7. You have values.
Humble people stand for what they believe in but don’t oppress or shame anyone else for thinking differently.
8. You don’t live above your means.
Humble people are content. They don’t need to jump on the train of unhealthy consumerism.
The best example of humility is Jesus, who was willing to give his life for those who had yelled at him, swore at him, and beat him up. If you truly wish to become humble, follow his example.