Authenticity, Resilience and Humility

10Oct

A bit of a recap. We’ve looked at Authenticity and Resilience. The main theme is; what do they actually mean? Do you need them? When people say they have them, is that right? Are they mixed up with other things? Are they aspirational, perception or both?

That brings us to the third topic: humility.

Humility,……humility…..oh the humility. Humility is a simple concept. You’re not to conflate it with goodness, or abuse it as weakness. Humility is something strong people have, because they can.

Humility

In the Merriam Webster Dictionary online, the first two definitions of humility are:

The quality or state of being humble.
Freedom from pride or arrogance.

Definition number two is the key. Freedom from pride or arrogance. Let’s see if we can use someone perceived as humble as an example.

Baba Yaga, Baba Yaga!

It might be a surprise to know that at the time of writing, John Wick actor Keanu Reeves is 60 years old. Some of his most famous films are John Wick (2014), Constantine (2005), The Matrix (1999), Speed (1994), Point Break (1991), and Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure(1989). I’ve enjoyed watching many of his films.

It’s no surprise that the internet is full of memes. Some of them have pictures of celebrities, with a quote attributed to them. Every so often, someone will post one or several of these memes to signal or to be in some way ‘inspirational’. I sense many of them are completely bogus. Also just being a celebrity should not be the inspiring part. You can be a celebrity and be inspiring for a number of reasons.

Keanu Reeves has appeared in several of these memes. The general idea is that he is a down to earth and humble guy. Is he? Let’s take a look.

Humble Yaga

Keanu Reeves donated millions of dollars from his earnings from The Matrix to the film’s crew. That’s the story. It’s been widely circulated over the years. The exact details are hard to verify. There hasn’t been a formal statement I’ve been able to find. All the information comes from memes or reports in publications.

It’s also reported that Reeves donated 70% of his salary from the original Matrix. This was for leukaemia research, inspired by his sister Kim’s battle with the disease.

It’s said he also donated millions to special effects artists and costume departments. This was also in conjunction with the Matrix sequels.

Articles are in Hindustan Times, Celebrity Net Worth, The Daily Mail, Hello and Nicki Swift.

Many of these articles reference the same story from other articles. These incidents are ‘believed’ to have happened.

Other articles on Reeves’ interactions with fans do portray him in a humble light. There are several incidents with fans cropping up in stories.

For example:

There are several other examples. Although the details vary, the volume of them seems to suggest a pattern.

“Freedom from pride or arrogance.” It’s just gossip, though due to the numbers, I am more inclined to believe it. Keanu Reeves is likely a humble guy.

Measuring humility?

Measuring humility involves observing consistent behavioural patterns rather than one-time gestures. Here are some clues.

Feedback: Open to feedback and criticism without becoming defensive. Seeks out opportunities to improve and genuinely appreciates constructive input.
Credit: Shares credit and acknowledges the contributions of others. Highlights team efforts. Realises “A rising tide lifts all boats.”
Limitations: Can admit when they’re wrong or when they don’t have the answer.
Body language and tone: Humble people show open body language. They have a relaxed posture and calm eye contact. They speak in a measured, inviting tone. They focus on listening, share credit, and encourage others.
Validation: Humble people appreciate recognition but don’t rely on it. They are confident in their achievements.
Kindness: It reflects a person’s genuine desire to help others. Actions are driven by character.
Learning: Humble people are lifelong learners. They seek new knowledge and perspectives.
Self deprecating: Humble people can laugh at themselves. They don’t take themselves too seriously.

What humility isn’t

False modesty: Humility is not downplaying accomplishments.
Weakness: Humility isn’t about letting others take advantage of you. Humility allows for strength and confidence in one’s abilities.
Hiding: Humility is not the same as rejecting fame, success, or recognition. It’s about how you handle success.
Boasting: Someone who boasts about being humble is missing the point. Humility isn’t something to declare; it’s shown through consistent actions.
Self denial: Humility is not about pretending you don’t have strengths or talents. It’s possible to acknowledge your abilities while being humble.
Avoidance: Humility doesn’t mean shying away from leadership roles or responsibility. Humble leaders often make the best leaders because they are willing to listen to others. They prioritise team success.
PR: True humility does not involve doing good things just for recognition. Giving away money or making grand gestures isn’t necessarily humble. Humility happens in consistent everyday actions.
Low confidence: It doesn’t mean being afraid to show confidence or assertiveness. Humility includes knowing your worth but not needing to dominate or overpower others. A humble person can be confident without letting their ego take over.

The humility effect

Learning and Growth

Where technology is evolving, no one has all the answers. Humility allows you to remain open to new ideas and perspectives. A willingness to learn is always crucial for personal and professional growth. Humility may allow professionals to assess their own limitations. They can seek diverse perspectives, and remain curious.

In “Intellectual Humility: Owning Our Limitations” (PDF) by Dennis Whitcomb, Heather Battaly, Jason Baehr & Daniel Howard-Snyder, the authors ask, “What is Intellectual Humility?”
In “Intellectual humility and openness to the opposing view” (paid study) Tenelle Porter and Karina Schumann, the authors discuss “appreciating others’ intellectual strengths”.
This article “What if AI Operated with Intellectual Humility?”, discusses how “intellectual humility can help us navigate the balance between trust and critical engagement with AI”
This article from Psychology Today by Michael Hogan Ph.D. discusses Intellectual Humility in the Age of AI

AI Adoption

Intellectual humility may influence how people interact with new technologies. Being open to using AI may demonstrate adaptability in the face of new technology. Arrogance could lead to dismissing valuable feedback and warning signs. It could lead to bias in particular systems.

In the article Reshaping Business With Artificial Intelligence the authors Sam Ransbotham, David Kiron, Philipp Gerbert, and Martin Reeves, explore psychological factors like openness to new experiences and adaptability. It also explores “Closing the gap between ambition and action.”

Leadership

In leadership roles, humility is essential for creating inclusive and supportive environments. Leaders who demonstrate humility are more approachable. They make better decisions by incorporating input, and build stronger, more loyal relationships.

This article from IMD discusses Humility in Learning through a leadership perspective.
Leader humility and team innovation: The role of team reflexivity and team proactive personality. Pierre-Marc Leblanc, Vincent Rousseau, Jean-François Harvey 2022. The study shows that leader humility enhances team innovation by fostering team reflexivity.
Ray Dalio founded Bridgewater Associates in 1975. At one stage it was the world’s largest hedge fund. He now runs his Principles Framework. It emphasises humility, radical transparency, and open-minded decision-making. He says, “Think for yourself to decide 1) what you want, 2) what is true, and 3) what you should do to achieve #1 in light of #2 . . . and do that with humility and open-mindedness so that you consider the best thinking available to you.”

Pitches, Clients and Jobs

When applying for jobs or pitching to potential clients it’s essential to answer questions. If there’s a list of requirements, answer those requirements. You can then pitch other advantages. Not answering those questions may demonstrate a lack of humility.

Employers and clients might be time poor. Assume they are. They’re often dealing with numerous applications or proposals. They rely on applicants to show how they meet the outlined criteria. Again, you can then pitch other advantages.

This article from Psychology Today, The Underappreciated Power of Humility talks about humility in professional settings. This can lead to stronger relationships, especially with clients.

Innovation

Arrogance and a lack of humility can cause businesses to ignore feedback. They can miss critical market shifts. Kodak clung to film photography while digital products entered the market. Kodak did have the technology, though downplayed the shift.

Article: The moment it all went wrong for Kodak: The Independent.
Article: The Demise of Kodak: Five Reasons: Wall Street Journal

Another example may be Nokia’s fall from the top of the mobile phone market. Leadership missed the transition to touchscreen smartphones. Apple and Android devices entered the market and took over.

Developing Humility

Humility with Strength

Humility with strength could be thought of as “confident humility”. It involves being self-assured while remaining open to growth. Develop emotional awareness to manage how people affect your feelings and decisions. Take a step back to reflect on your emotions before responding.

Self-Awareness

Reflect on your strengths and where you can improve. Knowing your strengths helps you use them effectively and you can acknowledge growth.
Setting boundaries ensures respect for your time, skills, and personal space.

Constructive Feedback

Seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, or peers as a tool for learning. Humility requires you to listen and learn.
Judge the authenticity of advice by developing trusted sources. Take on diverse viewpoints. Ask questions, request documentation, or take time before committing to decisions.

Continuous Learning

Be open to new information and ideas, even if they challenge you. Stay curious, ask questions, and learn from others.
Don’t underestimate your worth. You do have something to contribute. Know your value and don’t allow anyone to diminish it.

Balance Confidence

Assert yourself where necessary and avoid arrogance.
It’s also okay to say “no” when something doesn’t serve your best interests or align with your values.

Respect and Value Others’ Opinions

Humility involves acknowledging other valuable perspectives. Be willing to change course based if new insights have an obvious or proven value.
A strong network minimises risks and can strengthen your sense of trust.

Admit Mistakes

Being able to admit when you’re wrong is a sign of strength. It allows you to move forward quickly. Every mistake is a moment to learn.

Leadership

Be prepared to help develop your team. Be approachable and open to suggestions. Encourage a culture of collaboration and mutual respect.
Have a system in place through reviews where you can support your team in their roles. Learn how to deliver constructive criticism as well as praise.

Cultivate Gratitude

Recognise and appreciate the contributions of others and the opportunities you have. Gratitude shifts your focus from entitlement to appreciation, which naturally fosters humility.
Take a moment to reflect on things you are thankful for, including the efforts of those around you.

Success

You should accept your ‘wins’, praise and validation. These are also effective measurement tools for improvement. Gaining success and being grateful is the way to do it.

Growth and Change

Humility requires an openness to growth. Personal and professional development is an ongoing process. Be adaptable and willing to change course when needed.
Set STAR (Specific, Timely, Actionable, Realistic) based goals.