12 Characteristics of Humble Leaders I’ve Known

I’ve had the privilege of meeting some well-known leaders – some who are occasionally arrogant, but many who are quite humble. Below are some of the characteristics I’ve found among the humble ones: 

1. They give with few people knowing. I’ve known leaders who give sacrificially to help those in need, but the only persons who know about it are those who must know. Humble people aren’t worried that others see what they do.
2. They open [metaphorical] doors for others. To be honest, I am where I am because of humble leaders who paved the way for me. They gave me opportunities to serve when they could have kept the opportunities for themselves.
3. They evangelize. This one might surprise you, but I’ve seen this correlation. Some of the humblest people I know are also the greatest evangelists I know. Proud people, on the other hand, usually talk about themselves more than about Jesus.
4. They are genuinely prayerful. Their obedience in this spiritual discipline is not simply what they know they need to do; it’s an expression of their deep love for God and their clear need for God’s help.
5. They shun titles. Sometimes they’re in settings where it’s appropriate for others to use the title (e.g., a seminary), but these leaders think little about that issue. As opposed to other leaders I know, you will not hear these humble leaders gently—and sometimes not so gently—remind others that they are “Dr. _______.” 
6. They adore their families. Again, I’m simply reporting correlations that I see among humble people. These folks love and prioritize their families, never allowing their own goals and aspirations to get in the way of their family.
7. They listen well. Missing an email or a text while listening to somebody doesn’t bother them. They don’t see themselves as so important that they must always be looking at their phones.
8. They admit failure, without excuse. Their admissions come with “I’m sorry” rather than “Let me explain . . . .” They are never so big that they won’t apologize to even the lowliest person. 
9. They don’t name drop. The folks I’m thinking of as I write this post could indeed drop names. They just don’t do it, even though they’ve spent time with other big-name leaders.
10. They don’t criticize others. Proud people readily criticize others, thus building up their own status (at least in their own minds). Humble leaders, however, don’t waste their time tearing down other leaders.
11. They talk to anyone. Some are more introverted than others, but these leaders generally intentionally engage others in conversation. They are not so “high and mighty” that they see others less than worthy of their time. 
12. They laugh a lot. I’m not sure what the correlation is between humility and humor, but I’m simply reporting what I’ve seen. The most humble leaders I know are also some of the most fun people I get to hang around. They enjoy life that God has given them! 

I read these characteristics, and I realize I have a long way to go. What about you?