The Pressure Leaders Face

Based on the fast pace of their day, some leaders fear making mistakes, being seen as ineffective, or becoming less productive. There can be a lot of pressure from others in the organization and from within themselves. Leaders often have high expectations and pride themselves on being the go-to person.

Unfortunately, when we believe our role is to have all the answers and never make mistakes, pride often gets in the way of effectiveness. Pride pushes us to take center stage, claim credit for positive outcomes, and avoid collaboration with others. In effect, pride separates us from others and breaks down trust.

When Pride Gets in the Way

Pride focuses on who is right or wrong. This focus divides us and causes us to stop listening and learning from others. When we need to be right, others often become defensive because they do not want to be wrong. Pride also prevents us and others from admitting mistakes. Instead, we spend more time justifying our actions.

After all, no one wants to be wrong, especially if it means being blamed for a problem.

Focusing on What Is Right

Instead, when we focus on the right course of action, answer, or way to resolve an issue, we encourage greater collaboration. We can acknowledge where we missed something or made a mistake. Then, we can immediately focus on identifying solutions that will correct the issue.

As a result, this process is freeing. It focuses our energy on changing a situation rather than remaining stuck on the problem.

The Strength of Humility

Humility allows us to admit when we are wrong while still contributing in meaningful ways to the team. We can acknowledge areas that challenge us and still see ourselves as effective and gifted leaders in other ways.

In fact, humility takes greater strength than pride because it requires us to empower ourselves and others to be open and vulnerable.

Building Trust Through Humility

Ultimately, humility builds trust and strengthens relationships. Leadership depends on trust, integrity, and strong relationships that allow us to positively impact others.

Strong leaders are not afraid to be humble. Because of that, they achieve far greater and more lasting success.