Respect Through Humility - A Minute of Vision for Men

Respect through Humility

We often gain respect in our society by how well we perform. If we are straight-A students, we make the honor roll and get awards. If we surpass our quarterly sales goals, we get bonuses and pats on the back. If we see an athlete make an amazing play on the field, we honor him or her with accolades, tweets, and retweets. We naturally reward great performance with recognition that declares, “We respect that about you.”

But have you ever considered how your humility can lead to more respect from those in your circle of influence? Coach Mike Krzyzewski says, “When a leader takes responsibility for his own actions and mistakes, he not only sets a good example, he shows a healthy respect for people on his team.”

Pride causes us to make excuses or blame others for our mistakes. It is a peculiar thing in us that causes us to not admit when we are wrong. But making excuses or even bluffing your way through your mistakes only leads to an awareness by those on your team that you cannot be trusted. If you can’t be trusted, you will be minimized, and your influence will dry up.

Proverbs 18:12 states, “Haughtiness goes before destruction; humility precedes honor.” Being unwilling to own your mistakes is deadly in relationships. Gain respect by showing ownership of your mistakes. Your team will appreciate the respect you show them by doing this, and they will repay you with a mutual respect that strengthens your bond.

Haughtiness goes before destruction; humility precedes honor.

Proverbs 18:12