The Daily Discipline of Humility

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For over 3,000 years, humility has been woven into the fabric of human wisdom—spoken about in sacred texts, ancient philosophy, and moral teachings across every culture. But in today’s world of loud voices and endless self-promotion, humility can feel like an afterthought… if not a liability.

And yet, true leadership—the kind that lasts, uplifts, and transforms—has always depended on it.

We hear the word humility often. It shows up in value statements, locker rooms, on stages, and in conference calls. But what does it really mean? And why is it so essential to both leadership and personal growth?

Renowned speaker, author, and former athlete Inky Johnson captured it best on his podcast Serendipity:

“Humility is such an underrated but powerful thing,” Johnson said.

“It can bleed over in several aspects of life. When you have humility, you always believe there’s a better way to do what you’re doing. No matter how much success you’ve had. No matter how much greatness you’ve had. When you have a level of humility about what you’re involved in, what you’re connected to, what you’re doing, you always show up with the mindset and a perspective that I can do what I’m doing better, and I can be better.”

True humility is the superpower that makes great leaders better—not just in what they do, but in who they are.

It’s what allows a CEO to walk the floor and listen instead of command. It’s what enables a coach to adapt their system to bring the best out of their team. It’s what gives a high performer the edge—not by proving they’re right, but by staying open to what they still don’t know. It’s what allows a parent or guardian to acknowledge a mistake and apologize to their child.

Yet humility can be hard to practice, even when we preach it. Here’s why:

• We’re expected to have answers. And when we don’t, we fear looking weak, inadequate, or losing respect.

• Ego gets tied to identity. Titles and success can build a fragile image that resists uncertainty or imperfection.

• The world rewards confidence, not curiosity. Boldness is praised. Quiet reflection? Often overlooked.

• The discipline is daily. Humility isn’t a performance. It’s a practice—far from the bright lights, but often exposed in the spotlight.

But here’s the paradox: The very things that challenge our humility—pressure, complexity, doubt—are the very things humility helps us navigate with greater grace.

Humility is the decision to show up—not with all the answers—but with a desire to grow and evolve.

To wake up each day with breath, a unique opportunity, and ask:

How can I win this day and these moments, and what’s getting in the way of me getting better?

It’s not about thinking less of yourself, as writer C.S. Lewis reminded us. It’s about thinking of yourself less—and the mission, the team, and the moment more.

Because leadership and the inner work journey isn’t about having it all together. It’s about staying open, grounded, and in pursuit of something bigger than your own reflection.

And that pursuit?

That’s where transformation begins—and where those you lead, love, and care for don’t just hear your words… they feel your presence.

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