“God, I wish they’d show a bit more humility and just admit when they’ve got it wrong.”
Ever caught yourself saying that about someone?
Perhaps you’ve also said this about someone else:
“You have to admire their confidence, they really back themselves.”
What’s the tension between these two statements?
It’s two ends of the same spectrum of ego vs humility.
As humans we need both, but finding that balance can be tricky. We’re all calibrated differently and it’s very easy to impose our beliefs onto someone else.
So how do we strike that balance and what’s the benefit that each brings.?
I think that ego often gets a bad rap, but it’s what gives us agency. The belief that our ideas matter, that we can make a difference, that we can stand up and be counted. Without it, there’s no progress.
Humility, on the other hand, is what keeps us grounded. It reminds us we don’t have all the answers. It keeps us curious, open, and connected. But too much humility, and we hesitate. We hold back when we should step forward.
I think the leaders who stand out are the ones who’ve managed to walk the line between the two.
They know when to lead with conviction, and when to listen.
When to push, and when to pause.
It’s not ego or humility. It’s the delicate balance between the two that defines us.
Here’s three experiments to play with.
Three Experiments for You to Try 🧪
💪 The 2-Minute Experiment
Think of a recent situation where you stayed quiet when you could have spoken up. What held you back? Now imagine what it would look like if you added just 10% more confidence next time.
🧭 The 5-Minute Experiment
Ask someone you trust, “When do you see my confidence helping me and when do you see it getting in the way?” Listen without defending or explaining. Just notice where the balance sits.
⚖️ The 2-Hour Experiment
Watch or listen to an interview with a leader you admire. Notice when they show conviction, and when they show humility. How do they move between the two? What can you learn about your own balance?
Related Articles
You Can’t Out Source your Thinking
Courage vs Bravery - What’s the Difference
Services I Offer