Humility and Simplicity: A Tree's Lesson for Life
Thivanka Vithanage
Driving Business Growth through Customer-Centric Solutions and Strategic Leadership | CX & TECH | MBCS | Ex Enadoc, Zone24x7 & WNS (NYSE Listed)
Years ago, a manager gave me a piece of advice that has stayed with me ever since.
He told me:
“If you are to live life with others, be like a tree full of fruits, but with branches that hang low, almost touching the ground.”
This simple metaphor carries profound wisdom. No matter how much success you achieve or what position you hold, humility should be your anchor. Like a fruitful tree, the more you accomplish, the lower you should bend grounded, approachable, and compassionate. The weight of your success should never lift you away from others but instead bring you closer to them.
He continued:
"You should be someone who can have a continental breakfast at a star hotel in the morning and enjoy a simple tea at a street teashop in the evening."
This lesson taught me the value of adaptability and inclusivity. Life should not be defined by the titles people hold or the status they present. True richness comes from being able to connect with everyone, regardless of their social standing. Whether sitting in a boardroom or standing on a street corner, it’s the respect and humility you carry with you that matters most.
At the heart of this advice is a powerful reminder: live simply, without ego. When you strip away the layers of status, wealth, and recognition, what truly remains is the joy of being able to embrace life in its purest form. Humility allows you to form deeper connections, while simplicity brings peace.
Living with humility and respect for others, no matter their title or position, brings a kind of fulfilment that no amount of success can replace. In the end, it’s not about how high you climb, but how grounded you stay.
Hope this makes your day a finest one ever! :)