There is no twelve step program to master the virtue that separates good from great leaders. None among us will ever perfect. All we can control is our commitment to practice. You see, this virtue is built (as all are) through deep, disciplined, purposeful practice and a whole bunch, in my case, of time on my knees. For me, more and more practice is required. Yes, I’ve got a pride problem. The mirror tells me this is true…
The great, timeless leader understands this. This BTL leader builds real strength and never ceases in their quest for more. And, as they become stronger, smarter, and masters of their craft, they sandwich their strength and ever increasing strength of their team with the practice of deep seated humility. Great leaders understand that humility has gotta be the bookends that holds them and their teams together. Humility constrains. Humility calms. Humility keeps us looking up; down, not so much.
Great leaders couple great strength with the practice of humility. They see the seeds of pride, arrogance, and outa control hubris before the world does. These leaders fall to their knees and look up gratefully, thankfully, and most importantly, humbly for perspective.
George Washington was twice offered dictatorial powers in America’s infancy. He declined both times. His practice of humility saved our nation from simply going from one King George to another. In January 1800, a month after GW’s death, Henry Holcombe paid tribute to Washington in a sermon that became known throughout the land, according to David Bobb in his book simply titled, Humility. “His boldness and magnanimity,” Holcombe said, were “equaled by nothing but his modesty and humility.”
Build strength, my leader. And, bookend your strength with deep seated humility. Strength and humility, please. This is why at BTL we have buidling humility as the second essential immediately following building your strong CORE. I hope you now know a bit more deeply why. And, I hope you’re getting comfortable with your mirror. Good…
BUILT TO LEAD 