What’s missing in the world today? What is one thing that quietly keeps people from growing, connecting, and creating a better life, for themselves and their communities?
I believe that one thing is humility.
As I was pondering on this, I realised that we don’t talk about humility much these days. In fact, the world seems to promote the opposite. We’re encouraged to be proud, to speak up, to take up space, to fight for what’s “ours.”
So, I had to do a mini study on what humility is and what it is not. And I googled… what is humility…
One of the definitions that I found says that humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.
Another definition that I found, and quite like, is thinking about yourself correctly. That is, knowing who you are, and who you are not, and being honest about it. It’s recognising your strengths and your shortcomings and being okay with both.
There’s a lot of emphasis these days on authenticity. Be authentic. Be real. But I think we need to hear more about humility. Which might be another side of the coin called authenticity. Maybe.
So what is humility all about?
Humility isn’t weakness. It’s not about staying silent when you should speak. It’s not about hiding or playing small.
Humility is knowing what is yours and what is not—and respecting both. It’s not about hiding. It’s about being visible, vulnerable, and open to correction. It also means welcoming feedback, even if it stings. That’s the real work.
It’s the ability to speak up when needed, but to do it with wisdom and respect.
It’s also the ability to let someone else speak without feeling the need to shut them down.
It’s also about accountability—owning your actions, your words, your mistakes, and your consequences.
It means being honest when you get something wrong and being willing to apologise.
Humility is about learning and growing, not proving and defending.
Humility gives us permission to say, “I don’t know,” and to go back, fact-check, learn, and return with something more thoughtful.
It means you can admit you’re not there yet, but still show up with curiosity and discipline, willing to grow. You don’t have to do it perfectly, but you do have to be honest.
Humility is precious because it’s fragile. It’s not loud or showy—but it’s powerful. Like a crystal vase, it’s pure and clear. And if you flick it gently, it gives off the most beautiful sound.
That quiet strength is what we’re missing right now.
We need more of that. Not more noise. But more crystal-like clarity. More honesty. More humility.
What do you think?
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