Humility
hu·mil·i·ty
Knowing your worth without needing to prove it. Humility is a quiet confidence that leaves room for others.
Another way of seeing it
Humility isn't thinking less of yourself. It's thinking of yourself less. It's the relief of not needing to be right, impressive or first. The Buddhist teachers call it letting go of the self that always needs defending, and there's an enormous freedom in it. When you stop protecting your image, you finally have room to learn.
In relationships
Ask for advice from someone who knows more than you, and take it seriously. It's a compliment to them, and a gift to you.
In the ordinary day
Say 'I don't know' or 'I was wrong' once today, out loud and without apologising for it. Notice the world doesn't end.
A question to sit with
Where would you learn more if you didn't need to look like you already know?
Carry this with you
Stay teachable.
Where it comes from
From the Latin humilis, low or near the ground, from humus, earth. Humility is staying grounded.
Try this today
Ask someone to teach you something today.
Journal prompts for Humility
- When did I last say 'I was wrong'?
- Whose quiet help have I not acknowledged?
- What could I learn if I assumed I didn't already know?
Did this word resonate with you today?
Know someone who might need this word?