And yet it is often treated like the absence of a vice.

Because we struggle to see it as a genuine strength of character.

The Apostle Paul has confused us about humility for two thousand years. He suggested we out-humble the next person. Show up people in how bad they are (and how awesome we are) by not showing them up.

In other words, be awesomer at humility. Which…kinda sends a mixed message.

Honestly, though, it seems like we struggle to comprehend the cognitive dissonance of it all. We don’t see why the least humble approach undermines our humility.

Our culture discourages humility.

Because we code arrogance as strength. And humility as weakness.

We encourage one another to “fake it till you make it” and reward CEOs of failing companies with 8-figure salaries. We praise “winners” and mock fools.

Humility, tempering one’s ego, showing generosity to neighbors, and encouraging friends is far more valuable. In every environment. Among leaders, teams, and networks.

And rewiring our thinking to see it as a strength takes work.