Do You Wish to Rise? Begin by Descending

Humility is like the lens that can help leaders see things better.

Being humble enables us to clearly see what proud leaders have difficulty seeing –our own weaknesses and limitations. As leaders, we have to recognize our limitations, accepting the fact that we really don’t have all the answers to everything. Should we be at the top of the organizational chain of command, we remain works in progress and there is always room for our growth and improvement. One thing is sure: it is difficult to learn when we believe we already know everything.

Being humble enables us to see what proud leaders have difficulty seeing -- the strengths of others. Leaders must humbly accept that they need others -their subordinates, colleagues, brothers and sisters in Christ, to figure it all out together and understand that we are all in this together. Responding to God’s calling and fulfilling our purpose in life are rarely done alone. We need one another’s expertise, the “wisdom of the crowds.” We need to realize the value of collaboration and the inherent value that each individual brings to the table. It is best to be humble and open so we can hear what others are saying; their ideas, apprehensions, questions and suggestions are their contributions. No matter what the leadership task is, whether decision-making or evaluating, we need to remember that we are all in this together. Leaders need to know that they need their followers just as much as they need their leaders. It is ok to admit that there are things that we cannot do and that it is okay to request others for help. No matter how good a leader is, no one leader is an all-around expert nor does one person know everything; we need others to share their expertise. We need to work together and leverage the diversity that we have around us. Leaders who show that they are willing to be helped by others is empowering; it shows that they recognize the capabilities and strengths of others and that they are enabling them to excel in what they do best, to rise. Great leaders are those who enable and empower others to shine.