Feature: Leadership, Humility, and Peace

By Timothy A. Edward

Can Leadership and Humility Coexist? Can leadership and humility go hand in hand? Do you see leaders as humble personalities, or as strong, self-confident individuals driven to accomplish their goals at any cost? It is true that great leaders possess all these qualities and more. But can humility be the greatest of all leadership virtues?

Encounters with Humble Leaders

Throughout my life, I have interacted with numerous leaders across various fields - education, business, entrepreneurship, development, human resources, psychology, government, and religion. Among them, some of the most down-to-earth individuals have been marked by one distinct quality: humility.

A Lesson in Humility on a Busy Road

I recall an incident from my younger days when our vehicle had a flat tire on a busy road. As I stood there, unsure of what to do, a tall, well-dressed gentleman appeared seemingly out of nowhere and offered his help. As he worked, I worried that his neatly pressed long-sleeved shirt and well-creased trousers might get dirty, but he didn’t seem to mind. Within minutes, the tire was replaced, and he flashed a warm smile before continuing on his way.

Years later, I discovered that this kind stranger was the head of a key government institution and the chairman of several other government bodies. That day, I had witnessed a humble leader in action - helping someone in need, without expecting recognition. Over the years, I had the privilege of following his journey and came to admire his strong yet winsome personality, always complemented by simplicity and humility.

Humility with a Purpose

Another example of humility is a prominent businessman in Sri Lanka. If you were to meet him without knowing his identity, you would never guess that he is one of the leading figures in the corporate world. He carries no air of superiority - just an unassuming presence and a constant smile.

His contributions to Sri Lankan entrepreneurs and businesses remain largely unsung, yet he has consistently used his business acumen, privileged position, and industry network for the betterment of others. His humility is not just a virtue - it is a purposeful force for cause.

True Leadership

Education, upbringing, rank, profession, and status can make us proud. But true spirituality and life’s most humbling experiences shape leaders of true greatness. Many of these humble individuals carry within them a broken yet contrite heart - an essential mark of spiritual maturity in leadership. No wonder they find peace within themselves and with those around them. Today, the world and businesses are in desperate need of such leaders.

Moses: A Portrait of Humility in Leadership

One such leader was Moses. His story offers profound lessons for leadership. As a baby, he was thrust into Egypt’s royal palace due to a family crisis, growing up as a prince with exceptional physical stature, intellectual abilities, and leadership skills. Yet, he later chose to ‘fire himself’ from his privileged life and become a shepherd for 40 years - a profession considered as one of the lowest in the ancient Middle East.

Then, during his other 40 years in the 'school of wilderness', Moses gained invaluable experience, mastering the art of prioritisation and delegation. He remained open to receiving advice and counsel, learned to turn unjust criticism into victories, and discovered that a leader is never too old to fail. After years of growth and refinement, he finally emerged as a transformed leader, earning the distinction of being the ‘meekest man on earth.’

The Role of Humility in Leadership and Legacy

For, one day can be equal to a thousand days, or a hundred years equal to one day, in the eyes of the Creator God - who resists the proud and favours the meek. Sometimes, a single day can mark the dawn of a new era, while at other times, true progress might require years of effort. But can transformation occur within the blink of an eye?

In this equation of leadership, humility, meekness, and peace, how would you want to be remembered? As a leader, how do you contribute daily to the peace within your family, business, workplace, and sphere of influence?

Will you leave a legacy as one of the meekest individuals who touched and transformed lives for the greater good? Truly, the meek shall inherit the earth.