Ruthlessly Caring

CHAPTER 6CONFIDENTLY HUMBLE

Because one believes in oneself, one doesn't try to convince others. Because one is content with oneself, one doesn't need others' approval. Because one accepts oneself, the whole world accepts him or her.

—Lao Tzu, philosopher and writer

What Is a ‘Confidently Humble’ Mindset?

Confidently humble leaders hold the following mindset:

• It is impossible for them to successfully achieve ambitious goals alone.
• They must inspire others to have confidence in them, so they back their beliefs, vision, decisions, and overall ability to deliver results.
• They show vulnerability and openly acknowledge their limitations.
• It’s vital for them to learn from others and harness all the ideas, expertise, and strengths of those around them.

Future-fit leaders are therefore confident and inspirational as individuals and humble and vulnerable as team players.

The requirement for leaders to be both confident and humble is not new, and the balancing act is certainly not easy. History is littered with examples of leaders, often highly talented individuals, who got the balance badly wrong and paid the price in terms of performance.

Take Linda Wachner.¹ While starting out as a junior buyer at Foley's Department Stores, Wachner wasted no time in making her mark in the industry. Rising through the retail ranks, she rescued declining cosmetics company Max Factor, restoring the business to profit in just two years. She then turned her attention to clothing manufacturer Warnaco, ...