Behind the pink slips, human stories. Dr. Tracy Shroyer empowers individuals and organizations navigating layoffs and career transitions with empathy, actionable tools, and unwavering support.
In our journey of career development, it’s easy to focus on our strengths, ambitions, and achievements. But one crucial, often overlooked quality is humility. In this article, we explore the importance of humility, particularly in recognizing our limitations and how embracing this mindset can lead to profound personal and professional growth.
The power of acknowledging limitations
Humility begins with the realization that none of us are perfect. We all have areas where we can improve, and it’s essential to acknowledge these limitations. This acceptance isn’t a sign of weakness; rather, it’s a powerful step toward growth. By admitting that we are always a work in progress, we open the door to continuous learning and development.
When I first considered what "H" could represent in the "Through the Lens of Learning: Career Development Series podcast ABC’s of Career Development series", several ideas crossed my mind, but none felt right. Eventually, humility emerged as the clear choice—something we often overlook in our quest for success. This concept resonated with me in the professional realm and my personal life, especially when reflecting on my own journey.
A personal reflection on humility
Reflecting on my own experiences, humility has played a significant role in shaping who I am today. I was deeply rooted in faith, raised in a Catholic household, and educated in Catholic schools. However, as I approached adulthood, I began questioning many teachings and eventually distanced myself from the church. Despite this, I’ve always respected the values and lessons I learned during that time and the Catholic traditions.
Recently, I found myself revisiting these lessons in a new context—teaching a class on leadership and the common good, which involved discussing religious and spiritual perspectives, including passages from the Book of Matthew in the Bible. Initially, I was apprehensive about how to approach this subject matter, concerned that it might feel like reverting to my religious upbringing. But as I thought more deeply about it, I discovered a new appreciation for these lessons, particularly when viewed through the lens of leadership and community.
This experience has been humbling, reminding me of the importance of staying open-minded and willing to learn, even from sources we might initially resist. It’s about blending the knowledge we’ve acquired with new perspectives, creating a richer, more refined understanding of the world.
Humility as a leadership quality
Humility is not just a personal trait; it’s a vital leadership quality. Great leaders recognize their limitations and are open to feedback and continuous learning. They understand that they don’t have all the answers and that seeking input from others, acknowledging their flaws, and striving for self-improvement are essential to effective leadership.
As I prepare to teach and discuss these ideas with my students, I realize that humility isn’t just about self-awareness—it’s about setting an example for others. By openly acknowledging our imperfections, we encourage others to do the same, creating a culture of growth and development within our teams and organizations.
Practical steps to cultivate humility
To cultivate humility, start by identifying areas where you can improve. Take time to reflect—perhaps even write down your thoughts on paper. Where are your limitations? What skills or knowledge could you develop further? Once you’ve identified these areas, break them down into smaller, more manageable steps and start to work on them – taking baby steps to work on them gradually.
Remember, it’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. As a recovering perfectionist, I’ve learned that striving for perfection can be paralyzing. Instead, focus on making steady improvements. This mindset shift can be incredibly liberating and will help you grow in ways you never imagined.
Encouraging humility in the workplace
Humility in the workplace can have a ripple effect, inspiring others to embrace their limitations and strive for self-improvement. By sharing your growth journey, you become a role model, demonstrating that it’s okay not to have all the answers and that learning is a lifelong process.
I invite you to join our discussion in the Career Development Club on Facebook or LinkedIn, where we can share our personal and professional experiences with humility. How has humility shaped your career? What lessons have you learned by acknowledging your limitations? Let’s explore these questions together and continue growing as individuals and as a community.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of discovery. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and stories. Until next time, remember, humility is not a sign of weakness, but a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.
Tracy Shroyer, PhD., Career Coach & Layoff Scholar
Behind the pink slips, human stories. Dr. Tracy Shroyer empowers individuals and organizations navigating layoffs and career transitions with empathy, actionable tools, and unwavering support. From resume revamps to LinkedIn mastery, she helps turn uncertainty into opportunity. Join her blog, podcast, and free community, "Let's Talk About Layoffs," for resources, real talk, and a path forward.
