Humility in leadership is not simply a trait, it’s a mindset and a way of being. From my experience, true leadership stems from humility, and while this might sound counterintuitive in a world that prizes boldness and authority, I firmly believe that it’s one of the most potent attributes a leader can have.
In my previous reflections, I’ve touched on how humble leaders navigate conflict, thrive in adversity, remain accountable, foster respect, and cultivate growth. Today, I would like to delve deeper into another core belief that shapes my approach to leadership: A humble leader isn’t just focused on getting the best out of people; they strive to bring the best to people.
When I talk about “getting the best out of people,” I think about leaders who focus on productivity, performance metrics, and outcomes. They may have excellent strategies to draw out employees’ talents and skills in a way that aligns with organizational goals. This is essential—after all, we want our teams to succeed and drive results. But I’ve come to realize there’s a deeper, more profound level of leadership.
To me, a humble leader goes beyond this. They don’t just “get the best out” of people—they strive to “bring the best to” them. What does this mean in practice?
It’s not just about leveraging someone’s abilities to achieve a goal; it’s about ensuring that, as leaders, we are actively creating an environment that allows people to thrive holistically. This could mean providing opportunities for professional development, offering mentorship, or fostering a culture where team members feel safe to express their ideas, fail, learn, and ultimately grow.
A humble leader asks themselves: “How can I equip my team with the tools and resources they need to excel? How can I nurture a space where they feel valued and supported as individuals, not just as employees?” To me, leadership is about serving others—not just in a transactional sense but in a way that allows each person to grow personally and professionally.
When I look at the leaders I’ve admired most, it’s their humility that stands out. They’re not preoccupied with showing off their expertise or exerting their authority. Instead, they’re invested in the people around them. A humble leader is someone who recognizes that their success is intertwined with the growth of those they lead.
By adopting this mindset, I’ve found that teams are more motivated, committed, and resilient. People thrive when they know they have leaders who are looking out for their growth—not just their output. They’re more inclined to take ownership, make meaningful contributions, and go above and beyond. Why? Because they’re not just being led; they’re being empowered.
Another aspect I’ve noticed as a humble leader is the importance of vulnerability. This might sound contradictory in leadership, but vulnerability is a powerful tool. I’ve found that admitting I don’t have all the answers or that I too can make mistakes creates a ripple effect within the team. It cultivates a culture of openness, where others feel comfortable doing the same. They feel safe to take risks, to fail, and to learn from those failures.
In this way, leadership is not about projecting an image of invulnerability. It’s about demonstrating that growth is a continuous process, and as leaders, we are just as committed to our development as we are to the development of those we lead. When I approach leadership from a place of humility, I acknowledge that I am also a work in progress, and in doing so, I encourage my team to embrace their own journey.
Ultimately, I believe humble leadership is about legacy. It’s about leaving something behind that transcends profit margins, quarterly reports, and short-term victories. When I reflect on my time in leadership roles, the moments I’m proudest of are not the ones where we hit targets or exceeded expectations. Instead, it’s the times I’ve witnessed team members grow—whether through overcoming personal challenges, stepping into leadership roles themselves, or simply becoming more confident in their abilities.
To me, that’s what leadership is truly about, creating a lasting impact on the people we work with, equipping them with the skills, mindset, and confidence to lead in their own way, long after we’ve stepped aside.
So, when I talk about bringing the best to people, it’s about laying the groundwork for their future, not just the organization’s future. It’s about focusing on how we can positively shape those around us, leaving them better than when they started.
I believe humility in leadership isn’t a destination but a lifelong practice. Every day offers an opportunity to lead from the heart, to bring out the best in others by first offering them the support, space, and opportunities they need to thrive. A humble leader recognizes that their greatest legacy is not in their personal achievements, but in the success, growth, and well-being of those they’ve had the privilege to lead.
In the end, I believe that leadership is about service, and humility is what allows us to serve effectively. It is what enables us to not just drive performance but to cultivate people—and that, to me, is the most important leadership lesson of all.