Extraordinary Power of Leader Humility

Humility–a deep regard for the dignity of others–is the key to extraordinary leadership, says veteran leadership educator Marilyn Gist. She draws on interviews with a dozen top CEOs to offer a new model for leaders at all levels.

On the most fundamental level, leaders must bring divergent groups together and forge consensus on a path forward. But what makes that possible? Leadership educator Marilyn Gist says what is most important is far too often overlooked- humility, which she defines as a deep regard for others’ dignity.

Gist offers a model of leader humility derived from three questions people ask of their leaders- Who are you? Where are we going? Do you see me? She explores each of these questions in depth, as well as the six key qualities of leader humility- a balanced ego, integrity, a compelling vision, ethical strategies, generous inclusion, and a developmental focus. Much of this book is based on Gist’s interviews with a dozen distinguished leaders of organizations such as the Mayo Clinic, Costco, REI, Alaska Airlines, Starbucks, and others. The foreword and a guest chapter are written by Alan Mulally, the legendary leader who brought Ford back from the brink of bankruptcy after the 2008 financial collapse and who Gist sees as an exemplar of leader humility.