H&h as in Humor and humility, the power duo that create positive energy and change all around you.
Humility
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. ― Ernest Hemingway
No one ever says, “I love working or being around this person because they are full of pride, self-obsession and arrogance”. People enjoy being around people that are down to earth, approachable and relatable.
If a person is really good at something, and stays humble, they will naturally gain admirers. Humility is a trait that comes naturally to people who understand and are aware that no one knows everything. A person who is not humble will invariably get carried away, get blind-sided and make many miss-steps or mistakes. Such people will be brought down to earth and be humbled by other individuals or a collective of people.
But, when you channel humility and are mindful, you are more grounded with a lower centre of gravity. It is a grounding virtue and hence it’s very hard to topple such a person. You are already grounded, so no one has to ever bring you down to earth. There is an eastern saying that goes something like…
The higher you go or grow, the lower you need to stay with humility.
Humor
A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done –Dwight D. Eisenhower
There is enough grave and serious things going on in this world around us. We all have our challenges in life cut out for us. Building, having and expressing a sense of humor is going to make you light and enjoyable to be around. The energy is going to permeate people you come in contact with. Pets like dogs can sense that.
- Start at Home.
- Extend to the workplace.
Don’t be afraid to chuckle at yourself. It signals everything is okay. People are more creative when they are relaxed. That applies to yourself as well. Don’t take yourself seriously. We make mistakes, we learn, we grow and we have to ensure to move forward. It helps you relax. Coupling humor with humility will make you magnetic to work with. Just ensure it does not offend anyone. Don’t get snarky. It has to be good natured, authentic and original. Make a deliberate effort to tune into your positive channel.
The best humor is self-deprecating humor. Use the fallacy and simplicity of the human condition. Be authentic. Be personable. It is an art and science. Best develop it in a safe, trusted space and mature it over time.
You will know when you are treading the right direction. Your relationships and influences will blossom and grow. Follow that garden path of growth.
It is unwise to be too sure of one’s own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err. ― Mahatma Gandhi
Humility is grounding and Humor helps you stay light. Grounded and alight, like a hovercraft, yeah?! So you can go over any terrain!