Lead Better: Embrace Humility and Learning
Image credits: Dylan Gillis / Unsplash
In his impactful book, Make Your Bed, Admiral William H. McRaven shares life lessons from his Navy SEAL experiences. Among these, humility and lifelong learning stand out as cornerstones of effective leadership, not just in the military but in any domain.
The Power of Humility
Humility is often mistaken for weakness in the corporate world, where assertiveness reigns supreme. Yet, true leadership requires recognising one's limitations and seeking guidance from others. Here’s why humility is a superpower:
Build Trust and Respect: Leaders who admit mistakes and learn from them earn their team's respect. This openness fosters a trusting environment where everyone feels valued.
Foster Collaboration: Humble leaders know they don’t have all the answers. By encouraging input, they leverage diverse skills and perspectives, leading to innovative solutions.
Encourage Growth: Humility sets a precedent for continuous learning, inspiring everyone to strive for personal and professional development.
Learning from Everyone
Admiral McRaven emphasises that lessons can come from unexpected sources. This mindset can transform leadership in several ways:
Breaking Down Hierarchies: Openness to learning from all levels dismantles rigid hierarchies, fostering a culture where ideas are valued based on merit.
Enhancing Empathy: Diverse perspectives help leaders understand their team’s challenges and motivations, strengthening relationships and support.
Adapting to Change: Leaders open to learning are better equipped to adapt to new trends and technologies, crucial for long-term success.
Practical Steps to Cultivate Humility and Openness
Seek Feedback Regularly: Ask for feedback from your team, peers, and mentors. Reflect and improve based on this input.
Practice Active Listening: Focus on understanding others' perspectives without jumping to conclusions.
Celebrate Others’ Successes: Recognise and celebrate team achievements, fostering a positive environment.
Invest in Personal Development: Pursue continuous learning through education, reading, and workshops. Encourage your team to do the same.
Lead by Example: Demonstrate humility and a willingness to learn in daily interactions, setting the tone for the organisation.
Admiral McRaven's Make Your Bed offers timeless insights into effective leadership. Embracing humility and fostering a culture of continuous learning can build stronger, more resilient organisations. These qualities drive individual and collective success, creating a legacy of excellence and innovation.
In a world of constant change, the leaders who thrive are those who remain humble and curious, drawing wisdom from every corner and inspiring their teams to reach new heights.
