There’s nothing more humbling than looking out at a giant canyon. You suddenly feel so small and insignificant compared to the massive rocks around you. If we ever want to scale these rocks, we would need an entire team supporting us. The vastness of the boulders is a great reminder that, although we each hold special gifts and talents, we can’t achieve success without the help of others. Success requires hard work without ego.
Look back at all the triumphs you’ve experienced throughout your life. We’re willing to bet that, if you really think about it, you got to where you were by being a part of a team. Whether it was being passed the ball in high school soccer or attracting a client because of the skills you learned from a teammate, we accomplish more when we work together. Keep your ego in check with these reminders of how leaders stay humble and value their team.
Tips for Staying Humble
Leaving your ego behind means practicing humility (learn more here). Spend time reflecting on how you can learn, grow, and help others.
- Get curious. There’s nothing more humbling than picking up a new skill or diving deeper into something you thought you were an expert in. Seek to continually learn rather than growing stagnant.
- Accept feedback. Hearing what other people think of your performance might require thick skin, but it’s a wonderful way to unearth what areas you can improve upon.
- Ask for help. We’ve said this before (see above), and we’ll say it again. You can’t do everything alone. Look to those who have gone ahead of you. In order to be successful, be willing to ask for, and accept, help from others.
- Listen. Really listen. Focus on what someone is saying rather than how you plan on responding.
- Build relationships. Forming friendships is a two-way street. It requires you to give your time and attention to others, which takes the attention off your yourself.
- Admit your flaws. We all have them, and that’s okay! Our flaws make us unique and give us character. Learn to analyze your strengths and weaknesses.
- Own up to mistakes. Admitting when you’re wrong is tough but having the guts to recognize your mistakes is important for your relationships and overall growth.
- Don’t compromise your integrity. Even more so than knowing who’s right, is doing what’s right.
Good leaders don’t wait for other people to pick up after them. They’re willing to sit down last, to serve others first, and to take the trash out if that’s what’s needed. Leaders excel by leading by example. By leaving your ego at the door, you’re better positioned to live out your mission, achieve your vision, and discover the success of your dreams.
One of the best ways to leave your ego at the door is to turn your attention to serving the people around you. Learn more about the benefits of serving others, here.
