Humility
"I see my strengths and talents but I am humble, not seeking to be the center of attention or to receive recognition."
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What is Humility?
Humility means accurately evaluating your accomplishments. It’s easy to describe what humility is not — it is not bragging, not doing things in excess, not seeking the spotlight, not drawing attention to yourself, not viewing yourself as more special or important than others. On the other hand, it is not bowing to every wish or demand of another person and it is not being highly self-critical. Truly humble people think well of themselves and have a good sense of who they are, but they also are aware of their mistakes, gaps in their knowledge, and imperfections. Most importantly, they are content without being a center of attention or getting praised for their accomplishments.
A common misconception is that humility involves having a low self-esteem, a sense of unworthiness, and/or a lack of self-focus. However, true humility involves an accurate self-assessment, recognition of limitations, keeping accomplishments in perspective, and forgetting of the self. Humble people do not distort information to defend or verify their own image, and they do not need to see-or present- themselves as being better than they actually are.
Humility is a strength within the virtue category of temperance, one of six virtues that subcategorize the 24 strengths. Temperance describes strengths that help you manage habits and protect against excess. The other strengths in Temperance are forgiveness, humility, prudence, and self-regulation.
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Where does humility appear in your character strengths profile?
Research findings on the benefits of the strength of humility found humility is linked with good self-esteem and a positive self-view. Humble people are likely to demonstrate higher levels of gratitude, forgiveness, spirituality, and general health. Learn how to activate this strength and all of your other strengths with your personalized Total 24 Report.
- Frequently Asked Questions About Humility
- What is humility as a character trait?
Humility is a character trait that reflects a realistic understanding of your strengths and weaknesses. It means you can recognize your abilities without arrogance and embrace your limitations without harsh self-criticism. Humility comes from a place of confidence and self-awareness—not insecurity or false modesty.
- How does humility relate to leadership?
Great leaders often display humility. Rather than leading with pride or a desire for personal recognition, humble leadership is based on empathy, openness, and a willingness to learn from others. Humble leaders lift others up, listen actively, and put the needs of the team ahead of their ego.
- Is humility a weakness?
Is humility a weakness?
- What traits or characteristics are commonly found in humble people?
People who embrace humility often exhibit traits like gratitude, forgiveness, patience, and emotional intelligence. Common characteristics include a quiet confidence, a lack of arrogance, and the desire to learn rather than to be seen as the best.
- How is humility different from pride?
Humility and pride are often seen as opposites. Pride can lead to inflated self-importance, while humility is grounded in self-awareness and authenticity. Humble people don’t reject their accomplishments—they just don’t need to be the center of attention to feel valued. They act from the heart, not from the ego.
- Which virtue is humility part of in the VIA Classification?
Humility is one of the strengths of Temperance, which includes traits that help you manage impulses and balance your actions. Other strengths in this category are forgiveness, prudence, and the self-regulation character strength.
- Can humility be developed or strengthened?
Yes, humility can be learned and cultivated. It starts when you believe in the value of self-improvement and let go of the need to always appear right or superior. Practices like mindful listening, reflecting on your experiences, and giving credit to others help build this essential character strength.
- Why is humility one of the best traits for personal growth?
Because humility creates space for growth, it allows you to be open to learning, to admit mistakes, and to form deeper connections with others. It’s one of the best traits for developing confidence that’s not based on comparison but on inner security and self-knowledge.
- How can I see where humility ranks in my character profile?
To find out if humility is one of your signature strengths, take the VIA Character Strengths Report. For a more personalized, in-depth look at how humility shows up in your life—and how to activate it alongside your other strengths—explore the Total 24 Character Strengths Report.