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Humbleness is defined as not arrogant or assertive; reflecting, expressing, or offered in a spirit of deference or submission. Most people believe that being humble is a sign of weakness or downgrading yourself. However, humbleness is a form of humility that refers to being modest.  Being humble does not mean that you are not proud of yourself and your accomplishments.  Humbleness also does not mean that you are less than or inferior to others.  It means that you are humble enough to know that you do not have to be mean to people whom you consider to be less fortunate than you are, and you do not have to be boastful about who you are, what you do, or what you have. 

 

When you are humble, you know that you are not better than anyone else, you treat people with the same love and respect that you want.  You are not in denial about your areas of weaknesses, you are thankful, grateful and appreciative, you can admit when you are doing something wrong, and you are not ego driven or too prideful to apologize. 

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Being humble is sometimes viewed as a negative characteristic.  However, being humble is a character strength that demonstrates mental maturation, a fundamental caring about oneself, and compassion towards others.  People who possess the characteristics of humbleness are usually people who are open to listening and learning new ideas that might be contrary to their own thoughts and beliefs.  They are more open minded and open to feedback.  They are also more accepting of others.

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People who are not humble, usually have a difficult time coping when life does not go the way they planned or expected.  It is better to humble yourself, than to have God humble you.  When God humbles you, He removes whatever is causing you to lack humbleness.  Below are some tips to help you practice humbleness and humility.

 

-It is important to accept yourself as you are, rather than judging yourself based on your shortcomings. 

 

-Instead of blaming others for your shortcomings, acknowledge your flaws and work towards doing and being better.  If you think less of yourself, you will also think less of others. 

 

-Recognize and be kind to the people who are or have helped you navigate through life. 

 

-Choose to not be judgmental or offensive to others. 

 

-Do not be jealous of anyone else. 

 

-Do not be vain or materialistic.

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-Listen to people talk, without interrupting.  Know that what they have to say is just as important as what you have to say.

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-Walk away from useless arguments and/or fights.

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-Be polite and respectful.

 

-Be confident, but not boastful or arrogant.

 

-Be fearful of the Lord.

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-Ignore negativity.

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-Be optimistic, but not narcissistic.

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-Don't try to convince or force people to think the same way that you think.

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-Don't do anything out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.

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-Have compassion and be genuine.

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-Acknowledge your mistakes.

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-Ask for help, when you need help.

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-Ask questions, when there is something that you do not understand.

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-Put your ego and pride aside.

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-Admit that you do not have all the answers.

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-Don't be mean to people who are trying to help you.

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-Be humble.

 

And, Know that being humble does not mean that you are less than anyone else.

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By Lynnette Clement

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