A person’s character is, in many ways, revealed when they hold some kind of hierarchical or financial power. That is the moment when we see who they really are.

I am always very positively impressed when I meet someone, spend time with them and only later realise what their position is in the company or how full their bank account is.

We have all had the chance to cross paths with someone who made it very clear, through their posture and attitude, that they had status or money. Who has never had that boss who, because of their position in the company, feels entitled to be authoritarian and disrespectful towards others?

There is also the person who treats the people who report to them with respect and empathy, who genuinely values them and, through their example as a professional and as a human being, earns their admiration and even boosts their productivity. This second person is the one who creates a good work environment and is truly missed when they leave. This person is humble.

So what are the characteristics of a humble person?

Humility in someone shows up through a combination of values, attitudes and behaviours that express respect, empathy and awareness of themselves and others.

➡️ A humble person:

⭐ Recognises their own limitations. Knows that no one knows or can do everything and accepts their own flaws and the areas they still need to improve.

⭐ Values other people. Listens to others with attention and respect and appreciates different perspectives without looking down on anyone.

⭐ Is grateful. Appreciates simple things and other people’s efforts and acknowledges the value of each contribution.

⭐ Avoids arrogance. Does not feel superior to others, regardless of position, achievements or skills.

⭐ Constantly seeks knowledge. Is willing to learn and grow and can accept constructive criticism without becoming defensive.

⭐ Is simple. Does not need to show off and does not depend on excessive recognition.

⭐ Helps without expecting anything in return. Is willing to offer support with no hidden agenda, simply out of genuine altruism.

⭐ Is authentic. Does not feel the need to pretend to be something they are not just to impress or please others.

⭐ Is patient. Shows calm and understanding in difficult situations and avoids quick judgments.

⭐ Has empathy. Puts themselves in the other person’s place to understand their struggles and feelings and responds with compassion.

It is very clear that humble people earn the respect they deserve. Humility is a balance between self confidence and modesty and that balance allows someone to inspire respect without stepping over others. The key word here is “inspire”. We end up respecting humble people so much more because this virtue helps create healthier and more meaningful relationships.

If you have ever felt that your relationship looks happier on the outside than it feels on the inside, you might like this reflection on social media relationships and what happens when love becomes a performance.

Value the people you know who, if no one told you, you would never guess have money or power just by looking at them. That is exactly where you see someone’s true character.

And if humility is something you are trying to practise while also protecting your peace, this piece on how to set boundaries and say no without feeling guilty might be a helpful next step.

🍷 It is Saturday, so I am fully entitled to my ME TIME.

I am going to continue with my friend Indiana Jones and tonight it will be “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom”. I love it. 😁👌🏾

I will enjoy it with a glass of very cold white wine. So good. 🙌🏾😁😋

Good night. 💋