Being a Better Person: The Power of Humble Greatness

How do you become powerful by being humble?

12/3/20242 min read

smiling woman standing beside smiling man pointing MacBook
smiling woman standing beside smiling man pointing MacBook

In a world often obsessed with power, influence, and status, the question of what truly makes a person lovable and respected lingers in the hearts of many. The answer lies not in dominance or material wealth but in humility—a timeless virtue that connects us deeply with others. But humility is not a one-size-fits-all trait. Edgar Schein, a renowned organizational psychologist, identified three distinct types of humility that can guide us on the path to becoming better versions of ourselves.

The Three Types of Humility

1. Basic Humility:

This is rooted in traditional social structures where status is based on birth or social position, meaning humility is not a choice but a given based on cultural norms

2. Optional Humility:

This arises from admiration or envy of others' accomplishments, where one chooses to feel humble in the presence of someone with greater expertise or achievements.

3. Here-and-Now Humility:

This is the most crucial for "Humble Inquiry" and refers to the feeling of dependence on someone else in a specific situation, where their knowledge or ability is necessary to achieve a goal.

Why Humility Matters

Humility, in its many forms, is not about diminishing oneself but about creating meaningful connections. A humble person is not loved because they are weak but because they inspire trust and admiration through their actions. Humility allows us to:

  • Build Authentic Relationships: People are drawn to those who listen, empathize, and uplift others without seeking validation.

  • Grow Continuously: When we are humble, we open ourselves to learning from life’s experiences and the wisdom of others.

  • Lead with Influence, Not Authority: True leaders inspire through service and example rather than by exerting power.

Recognizing the type of person we aspire to be is the first step toward living a life of love and respect. Do you want to be remembered for your accomplishments or for the way you made others feel? When we choose humility, we step closer to embodying the latter.

A Humble Journey with Coachaholic

At Coachaholic, we believe that personal growth is a positive addiction. Choosing to embrace humility is one of the most transformative decisions you can make. It empowers you to lead with kindness, foster genuine connections, and grow into the best version of yourself. Remember, humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself; it’s about thinking of yourself less.

Start your journey today and make being humble your superpower. After all, it’s a choice that can truly change your world—and the world around you.