C.S. Lewis defined humility wonderfully, by stating,
"Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less.
"True humility" is indicated by some of the following behaviors and attitudes.
1. Recognizing virtues and talents that others possess, particularly those that surpass one's own, and giving them due honor.
2. Recognizing the limits of one's talents, ability and authority.
If we think we are special and not subject to the laws others have to obey then we are not humble. It is not possible for us to excel in everything we do; and this is not necessary for us to do so in order to justify our existence. We must accept that as wide as the world is, there are going to be others better than us; and life is not necessarily an unending competition. In not vying to be what I am not, I am giving myself permission to be who I am.
Piero Ferrucci states in his book, "The Power of Kindness,"when we are simpler we are also more genuine and humility put into practice allows us to reach reality as it is, and not dreams and illusions. I am one among many others and am not superior to any one."
Humble people are not proud and know that they didn't get themselves here. They know that others helped them, encouraged them and assisted them to get to where they are now If we recognize this and acknowledge how others might have helped you along the way, we can become more humble by,not always taking credit for ourselves.
On the other hand, excessive humility or false humility is when we refuse to take credit for our accomplishments. False humility is often a ploy to garner approval and more attention from others and also in deflecting praise some might think they are in greater favor with everyone around them. When we are complimented a simple 'thank you' is sufficient.
Here are some ways I found how to practice humility and I try to incorporate at least one aspect each day into my life.
SOME WAYS TO PRACTICE HUMILITY
•Notice and compliment others for their positive values and virtues.
•Be thankful for any kindness received.
•Use the response "It's My Pleasure" when someone thanks you for doing something.
•Use the response "I'd be honored" when someone asks you to help them.
•Admit when you don't understand or know something.
•Recognize your talents as gifts, not as your special ability.
•Don't boast about your achievements, let others recognize them instead.
•Rejoice when others are praised.
•Know how to accept praise with a simple thank you, don't elaborate unless necessary.
•Share your core values and live according to them.
•Forgive those who wrong you, and move on without revenge or lashing back.
•Ignore the small mistakes others make.
•Be grateful for your own shortcomings, consider them as opportunities for learning and growth.
•Be kind and gentle despite any provocations to the contrary.
•Don't stress yourself about expectations of the outcomes, take the necessary actions and do your best.