Why is Humility Important?
By Brad Bell
Humility is an important personality characteristic. What is humility? "Humility is the willingness to acknowledge one's shortcomings and to present one's positive attributes in an accurate way" (Bell, n.d.).
It is important to consider why humility is important. Humility may be important because it allows one to make better decisions, build rapport, achieve personal growth, and resolve conflicts.
Better Decisions
Being humble may lead to better decisions. This may be true because humility may foster critical thinking. If a person acknowledges his or her weaknesses, then there may be greater critical thinking. The person may consider reasons why a strategy may not work and consider alternatives. This may lead to more thoughtful and careful decisions that exclude unreasonable choices.
Building Rapport
One of the elements of rapport may be liking a person. A person who is humble may be liked more by others. This may be true because people feel more comfortable talking to someone who is humble. Moreover, people may trust a person who is humble to a greater degree. Greater trust may lead to greater liking.
Personal Growth
Personal growth involves becoming a better person. If a person cannot accept his or her weaknesses, then it may be difficult to become a better person. The person who denies weaknesses may not take responsibility for negative behaviors and may not strive for
self-improvement. The first step in becoming a better person may involve assessing one's weaknesses. The second step may involve a plan for self-improvement. A significant sense of humility may be essential to achieve these steps.
self-improvement. The first step in becoming a better person may involve assessing one's weaknesses. The second step may involve a plan for self-improvement. A significant sense of humility may be essential to achieve these steps.
Resolving Conflicts
Some conflicts may stem from conflicting views. A person who is humble may be more likely to accept that he or she is wrong. This could help to resolve conflicts. This may be true because the person is able to adopt the perspective of the other person. Feeling that
someone appreciates one's views may reduce hurt feelings.
someone appreciates one's views may reduce hurt feelings.
References
Bell, B. (n.d.) What is humility? Received March 28, 2022 from http://bluefoxcom.com/what-is-humility.shtml