Humility

This document contains stories of people being humble and of failing to be humble. (The titles next to people’s names are their titles at the time the story occurred and may not be their title currently.) Discussing diverse situations in which people failed or succeeded to live up to their values often helps people to recognize and act on other opportunities when they arise. By discussing these stories in meetings, on teams, over internet or intranet forums, or in classrooms, groups can come up with ideas for leading with exceptional humility, learn each other’s perspectives, work through disagreements, and generate ideas.  The teaching note is included.

Edgar Schein defines Humble Inquiry as “the fine art of drawing someone out, of asking questions to
which you do not know the answer, of building a relationship based on curiosity and interest in the other
person.” This tool guides you through creating the conditions for Humble Inquiry and provides practical
application examples.

This tool is designed to help you enhance your everyday connection rituals. By building a foundation of connection, you have an opportunity to prevent the systemic triggers of burnout. The importance of high quality connection is drawn from the virtue of humility – a pillar of positive leadership.