Know Thyself- Humility

Another big topic which is done to death on the internet. So what do the writing genie and I have to say that is any different. Being a strong proponent for humility, we thought to explore what it really means for us to live this in our life.  

When humility is spoken about, the image that is conjured up in my mind is Uriah Heep of Charles Dickens fame. So “umble”in everything he said but was a manipulative creep of the first order. Luckily I have not bumped into many Uriah Heeps in real life. But I have bumped into folks who say they are humbled but, feel no such thing. Others say this when they don’t think they deserve the praise. Which is a totally different kettle of fish. All in all pretty confusing thing this humility.  

Let’s look at what constitutes humility.  

No False Modesty 

Working on the Know Thyself project for a couple of years, I am now very much aware of my talents and strengths. As such when people compliment me on certain things that resonate with those gifts and talents, I always acknowledge their kind words. It inspires me to show more gratitude to the universe and to move the needle of that strength as best as I can. 

I never let the knowledge of my talents and strengths go to my head either. I know I am just a vessel that is filled by the universe. And these talents are something that the universe has gifted me and can go walkabout at any time.  

No Bragging

I remember going to Malaysia for the first time many years ago and meeting someone in my uncle’s home. He spoke a lot and all his stories started with in 1949 when I was or in 1953 when I was. Obviously as a young person, I was tired of all these lists of achievements of this gentleman in times before I was born. It was so boring. I made a promise to myself that I would never bore others to tears with my stories. Here I am writing about Know Thyself. So the hard question is this bragging. I sincerely think not, as it is a vehicle to provoke thought and stimulate others to Know Thyself better. Know Thyself is the start of self-awareness. Self-awareness is key to soul maturity.  

In real life, I don’t talk much about myself. In fact, very minimally about my previous corporate existence.  That said, I am a more tolerant of elders telling me stories of their past. In fact, with the right person, I am held spellbound as they have achieved so much in life and have oodles of resilience. I guess on has to mature to appreciate elders in life.

 Knowing my Flaws

I have always been aware of my gaps, In fact, that was my secret for my longevity in a senior role. I always called out when I did not have a clue and had smart people fill those gaps. Those smart people made life easier for me and underpinned my belief in collaboration in everything I undertook. The Know Thyself project is uncovering the mental cages. Which is a step up from knowing my flaws. And now I need to break out of them with constant application.  

Treating everyone with respect

This is a big one for me. All folks are equal in my eyes, Some more equal to me than others. Unsung heroes, selfless folks and dedicated people of all walks of life get my total attention and respect. I think it is a privilege to know those folks.  

For those who are full of ego, I give a wide berth. No point wasting precious time hobnobbing with such folks. 

Being Teachable

Another big one for me. I hope I remain a learner for the rest of my days. In fact, I try to learn from everything, everyone and from all I read. I must admit if you ask me to learn things such as Maths, Physics or Scientific stuff, I would not be teachable at all. But all other aspects I am happy to expand my horizons. In fact lately I realise, that each issue has so many aspects when you really delve into it.  

I am glad I have a few concrete examples to demonstrate that I try to incorporate humility in my daily life. Someone told me, those who are truly humble never realise they are humble or will not use that term in daily parlance. Looks like I have a way to go to achieve this aspirational goal.  

What are some examples from your daily life that demonstrates that you are humble? 

 How important is humility to you? 

 Do you see any benefits from being humble? 

Any drawbacks from being humble? 

 On a scale to 1 to 10, how humble are you?