Growth through humility

Hunt For Greatness

Milton Kamwendo

MARGARET THATCHER, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, once said if one has to tell people that she is a lady, one would not be a lady.

This is also true of greatness.

True greatness does not need to push, shout or raise dust.

True greatness is found in humility. In the book “Humilitas”, John Dickson presents a compelling argument that humility is not weakness but the foundation of real influence and leadership.

Through the lens of humilitas, we learn the principle of growth that results in lasting impact and greatness. Dickson defines humility as “the noble choice to forgo your status, deploy your resources or use your influence for the good of others before yourself”.

It is a conscious decision to shift from self-centred ambition to servant leadership. True humility is not false modesty.In true humility, you acknowledge your strengths, but you do not boast in them.

Humility is power and influence under mature control that seeks to do good for others.

In ancient times, humility was not a celebrated virtue. Greek and Roman cultures valued honour and power, seeing humility as a weakness. However, with the rise of servant leadership — exemplified most powerfully by Jesus Christ — the idea of humility as strength transformed leadership and personal development.

Humilitas elements

Dickson’s “Humilitas” lays out principles of humility that challenge conventional leadership wisdom and provide a road map for growth.

1. Humility is common sense

Humility is simply recognising the truth about ourselves.

We are all flawed and dependent on others in various ways. No one has absolute knowledge or ability.

Acknowledging this reality is not a sign of weakness but of intelligence and maturity. What this calls for is embracing a learning and growth mindset.

Growth happens when you recognise that you do not have all the answers. Seek the gift of feedback from others. Feedback is not an attack. Admit mistakes openly and take responsibility. This builds trust and strengthens relationships.

2. Humility enhances influence

Humility is not about being passive or timid. It is a powerful leadership tool. People are drawn to humble leaders because they are approachable, willing to listen and not driven by ego. Lead with a heart to serve and uplift others. You grow when you serve and put others first.

Cultivate empathy and genuine care. Seek to understand others before seeking to be understood.

Value people over power.

Relate with people for what you can give and not what you can get.

Influence is stronger when it is built on trust, not intimidation.

3. Humility generates growth

Arrogance shuts the door to learning and growth. Humility opens the growth and development door wider. In Steve Jobs’ words, “stay hungry and stay foolish.”

Remain teachable.

Stay hungry for growth and be curious. Ask questions and seek wisdom from different perspectives.

Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you.

Growth happens in the presence of accountability. Be willing to unlearn outdated approaches and ideas. Agility is key to staying relevant.

4. Humility strengthens relationships

Pride isolates. Humility connects. People are drawn to those who are authentic, honest, kind and selfless. Humility causes relationships to flourish and strengthen.

Practise active listening. Be present with people. Put away that phone and give people your full attention. Apologise sincerely when you are wrong. It takes strength to admit faults. Stop blaming and acknowledge when you are wrong. Express gratitude. A grateful heart fosters deeper relationships.

5. Humility attracts honour

Those who seek glory rarely find it, while those who serve others receive the highest respect in due course. True greatness is recognised and not self-proclaimed.

Focus on contribution, not recognition. Serve because it is right, not because it brings applause.

In Luke 17:10, the Bible gives the ultimate attitude in serving: “In the same way, when you have done everything required of you, you should say, ‘We servants deserve no special praise. We have only done our duty.'”

Focus on growth and service. Let success speak for itself. Genuine impact does not need self-promotion. Celebrate the achievements of others. Lifting others up elevates everyone. It is impossible to lift others up and stay down.

Growth through humility

Humility is a practical tool for personal and professional growth.

Applied intentionally, it leads to breakthroughs in character, leadership and success. Seek to grow and develop. Become the best version of yourself. Personal development requires an honest evaluation of strengths and weaknesses.

Humility allows you to see where you need to grow without shame.

Be teachable; be a learner.

Read widely. Seek mentorship and apply new knowledge. Ask many questions and be always on the lookout for growth ideas. Embrace failure as a growth tonic. Mistakes are not setbacks but stepping stones to mastery.

Practise self-reflection daily and keep asking how you can grow and improve. Walk in gratitude. Serve selflessly. Be approachable. Look for opportunities to help without expecting anything in return.

Pray for a humble heart.

True humility is a daily choice and discipline. Choosing humility is choosing growth. It makes you a better learner, stronger leader and deeper human being.

Humility builds relationships. It opens doors and creates seats at the table of greatness. Humility ultimately leads to a legacy of greatness.

Embrace humilitas and you will grow and glow. Committed to your greatness!

Milton Kamwendo is a leading international transformational and motivational speaker, author and accomplished workshop facilitator. He is a cutting-edge strategy, team-building and organisation development facilitator and consultant. He can be reached at: [email protected]