Modesty

Leadership Qualities

Modesty means the quality of being unassuming or moderate in the estimation of one’s abilities. Modesty is concerned with standards of decency.  A modest person does not seek the spotlight, preferring to let their accomplishments speak for themselves. They do not regard themselves as special and rather let others recognize and value their modesty. Leaders should have a dynamic personality that compels everyone to follow them.

While having a captivating personality is essential, it should never cross the limits to become intimidating and bossy. Although a leadership position requires taking decisions on a daily basis, instead of trying to be superior to the team, if he becomes modest and down to earth, sure he will get better results.

Confidence is a great trait, but must be tempered with modesty. This quality can be a powerful tool for entrepreneurs and aspiring leaders who are willing to put the time and effort into developing them. The modest leader is quick to admit when he/she has done wrong and deals with the fault-out without casting blame or making excuses. They seek forgiveness when the mistakes they make impact others.

We all like to be recognized for accomplishments, but a modest leader is quick to divert attention to others, sharing the limelight for successes with those, who many times, may have even had more to do with the success than the leader did. They celebrate the success of others louder than personal success. A modest leader should not have an ego. Pride is a struggle for many leaders, but we must strive to bring Modesty to our leadership roles.

Modesty helps a leader make good choices while maintaining a levelled head. On the outside a modest leader might seem quiet and reserved, but to those who come to know them, they are intense workers who are obsessed about getting results.

Aiyan Thiruvalluvar says

நிலையின் திரியாது அடங்கியான் தோற்றம்

மலையினும் மாணப் பெரிது. (124)

बिना टले निज धर्म से, जो हो संयमशील ।
पर्वत से भी उच्चतर, होगा उसका डील ॥ (१२४)

Explanation by Scholars

More lofty than a mountain will be the greatness of that man who without swerving from his domestic state, controls himself.

தன் நிலையிலிருந்து மாறுபடாமல் அடங்கி ஒழுகுவோனுடைய உயர்வு,

மலையின் உயர்வை விட மிகவும் பெரிதாகும்.