Misconceptions Of Humility

Humility: The Diamond in the Dirt Weak, indecisive, meek: all of these words are misconceptions of what humility means. These misconceptions could come from humility’s definition, which is a little misunderstanding, itself. According to Merriam-Webster.com, humility is, “the quality or state of not thinking you are better than other people: the quality or state of being humble” (Merriam-Webster). This does not mean that one belittles oneself, but instead acknowledges that everyone is equal in opportunity and rights. Whether or not the definition is behind these misconceptions, humility is becoming extinct. This is a problem, for humility is a characteristic that is much needed in people. Humility is good for the world for the benefits it brings,
The world works in a way where there are different tiers. People work for bosses, and bosses have employees that work for them. What would happen if there was no one with the humility to work under a fellow human? Take a minute to picture the world functioning as it does today without humility. There would be seven billion bosses with their own little businesses. There would be no monopolization, no expansions, businesses would not be able to branch out to other areas because there would be no one to work those businesses. Sure, this might work for a little while, but very soon the economy would get stagnant and soon crash around the world. The world is like a gigantic body. Each person has their own specific role to make this body function. If every person wanted to be the head, heart, or another of the more important parts of the body, it would not be able to function. According to writers John Dame and Geffrey Gedmin, “The attribute of humility seems to be neglected in leadership development programs. And to the extent it is considered by managers rising through the ranks, it is often misunderstood” (Dame, Gedmin). This goes along with what I mentioned in the introduction. Humility is often misunderstood as being weak, which makes clear sense to why it is disappearing in the work
One of these is the ability to admit that one is wrong. This is very important, for one’s pride can be disastrous to oneself and countless others. For example, imagine another scenario in the workforce. In the building of an airplane, one person built something incorrectly, but not wanting to be humiliated, he/she decides not to say anything. On the first flight, the plane crashes. This is an extreme example, but it paints a good picture. On the flip side of this, humility not only allows one to admit one’s wrongs, but it also allows people to forgive. One thing humility does is allow people to see that they, along with everyone else, are not perfect. This is necessary for forgiveness. In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus said, “Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye” (Matthew 7:3). Being critical of others in a helpful manner is great, but first one must recognize one’s own