Let’s dispense with the bothersome notion of humility in leadership. It’s an outdated virtue praised by philosophers, saints, and other underachievers. It has no place in the modern pursuit of dazzling leadership.
3 Inefficiencies of Humility
- Humble leaders listen when they could be swooning to the sound of their own voices.
- Servant leaders credit teams instead of hyping their own genius.
- Humility admits mistakes. Stop showing weakness.
Tip: All emerging leaders should be trained in the art of arrogance.
7 Ways to Eliminate Humility in Leadership
#1. Affirm: Look in the mirror and say, “I am the smartest person in the room.” Do this for 10 minutes.
#2. Interrupt: Prove you have the power by cutting off people in meetings. Take it to the next level by saying, “Excuse me,” in a sweet tone.
#3. Feedback: Teach leaders to nod dismissively. Use phrases like, “That’s interesting.” Say it like you just woke up from a nap.
#4. Self-promote: Jettison self-reflection. Replace it with self-promotion. Begin meetings by bragging about your greatness.
#5. Terrorize: Ego chooses dominance through fear and abuse. Threaten to terminate people for outshining you. Note-Fear is quick. Humility in leadership wastes time.
#6. Isolate: Put yourself on a self-constructed pedestal. Bark at anyone who draws near.
#7. Slap down bleeding hearts. They insist that humility in leadership accelerates growth. Demote anyone who hints at caring for people. Fire anyone who takes the word flourish seriously.
Bonus: Blow your stack once in the morning and twice in the afternoon for no obvious reason. That’ll teach’ em.
Long live ego development programs.
What’s the best way to eliminate humility in leadership?
A New Understanding of Ferocious Humility
How Humble Leadership Really Works HBR
