Being humble is not thinking less of yourself – it is thinking of yourself less.

Forbes writer George Bradt has noted, “One of the most fundamental lessons of leadership is that if you’re a leader, it’s not about you. It is about the people following you. The best leaders devote almost all of their energy to inspiring and developing others.”

What I have learned over the years is that my job as a leader is likened to a shepherd. It is about leading them – it’s about them. I don’t have to shine. It’s about the mission, and the team. As a leader, we need to be more like a conductor than a soloist.

Here are some tips to help:

  • Create a system where everything doesn’t have to funnel through you or a single person. Work to have a process that will increase accountability and distribute responsibility.
  • Beware of the “Platform Paradox,” Brian Houston states “the stage and bright lights, the accolades could destroy you. The platform should be for service, not stardom”
  • Encourage others on the team to push back. You don’t need yes people. You do need diversity of opinion, which is healthy discourse
  • Humble leaders maintain an others first mindset. It is always about them, how can you help them get better?
  • Set your intention on being approachable and vulnerable and realize it is not about you. I learned, I’m never as good as I think I am, I had to get over myself. How about you?