I’ve eaten so much humble pie over the years that I’ve come to believe it’s actually delicious. Scrumptious, even.
“Humble yourself,” we’re told. And yes, I believe humility is the way. But is it the only way? Why is it so important?
Being humble feels like having no expectations. You suppress them. You walk into a situation expecting nothing. The ego hates this. It kicks and screams. It rebels.
And oh, the groveling. Ever had to grovel? It never really works, does it? Makes you feel like a cowering dog, just waiting to get kicked in the teeth.
Ancient philosophies and religions—East and West—preach humility. They say it’s a great asset. And it can be. It keeps you from losing your cool when a customer complains. It makes your customer service better because you give your best without entitlement.
Sounds like pie in the sky, doesn’t it? But even at a supermarket checkout these days, you almost have to humble yourself before the cashier. You greet them politely—if you’re lucky, you might get a greeting back.
Ever been to a government service department? That is where humility gets tested. You’ll spend an entire day just helping someone in the queue. But that’s also where you meet the kindest, sweetest, most pleasant and helpful people.
Yes, humility is an asset. Hard-won, but powerful. And if you approach your business with it? It might just bring you rewards you never expected.
