HUMILITY; A FRAMEWORK FOR SUCCESSFUL LEADERSHIP

 Nelson Mandela in one of his interviews with the Oprah winfrey show (2000) said and I quote "I wanted to be known as Mandela, man with witness".

How would he have changed his country, how would he have liberated them towards a positive change if he was not humbled. He further said and I quote "changing the society, one must first change oneself. And doing that he made mention of humility which he called one of the most important qualities which one must possess and he also describe that been humble means one is no threat to others and that makes people embrace one another.

Nelson Mandela's lifestyle is being portrayed as being a humble person and therefore today he is one of the most celebrated icons and greatest leader in history. Through his humility, he has fought with sincerity and in togetherness within the society which he represents (described by Forbes ‘2000). 

Humility is broadly defined as self-awareness and appreciating others strength and contribution, also openness to new ideas and feedback regarding ones performance. Leaders who are humble have a better grasp on organizational needs and make better informed decisions about task performance. They are also better abled to ask for help than their charismatic counterparts. What’s more is that humble leaders help to foster a culture of development with their employees by legitimizing learning and personal development. Humility also encourages cultures of openness, trust, and recognition, which are important precursors to success.

‘Humility in leadership does not imply the absence of ego or ambition. Rather, humble leaders are better able to channel their ambition back into the organization, rather than use it for personal gain’ - Dr Hogan 

Humble individuals tend to acknowledge their mistakes and limitations also spotlight others’ contributions in an organization thus having egalitarian values. Leaders who come from humility use their success for the greater good, rather than for self-aggrandizement. 

Thus the importance of humility cannot be over emphasized as it enables good leadership skills for greater success.

 

Name: BABARINDE TOSIN MICHAEL

State code no: OS/21B/0827

Course: Zoology

Institution: Kwara state university

State of origin: Kwara state