Creative Confidence – Idea 9 – Humility

Creative Confidence – Idea 9 – Humility

Having creative confidence is trusting and valuing each and every one of your ideas and taking creative risks.

In the Art Studio this is goal #1 – to instill creative confidence in every visitor that walks through the door – no matter what the project is, what medium we are exploring, or what collaborative project we are constructing.

We regularly post new ideas about how to instill creative confidence in children at home and in the classroom.

Idea 9 – Humility

“Humility involves knowing your limits, and having appreciation for the intentions, strengths and perspectives of others.”

Robert Dilts and Judith DeLozier, “The Encyclopedia of Systemic Neuro-Linguistic Programming and NLP New Coding”:

“Humility can only come from those who actually have something about which to be humble. The humble are those who could crow, but chose to keep their beaks shut. Humility is also a close associate of gratitude, and it’s an attribute that simply oozes class.”

All Pro Dads – http://www.allprodad.com/top10/parenting/10-ways-to-teach-your-children-humility/ Humility, self-esteem, and self-confidence.

“Humility is the foundation of this personal power which rests in the fact that we are not pretending to be anything or anyone we are not. It is a quiet power, an unshakable power. A peaceful power. An active power. No sheer external force can, or ever has, overcome the power of humility. Countless historical examples have proven this principle.”

John David Hoag, a Professional NLP Trainer, Coach and Therapist

Humility, self-confidence and self-esteem are all important character traits no matter your age. Where does humility fit into teaching or raising children when self- esteem and self-confidence are valued so highly in our society? What does humility have to do with creative confidence and creativity?

Humility, in part, is about being aware and observant, two qualities every active creative person has. When I think about humility I think about being thankful, having a grateful heart, having the ability to appreciate and see value in anything that someone has done for you no matter how big or small. A humble person is able to see the bigger picture, the roles of everyone, and the importance of everyone. These are qualities that an artist has or strives to have – an ability and desire to clearly articulate artistically their relationship with the world around them. Self respect and respect for others are also very much a part of being humble.

I believe that in order to possess humility you must have a high level of self-confidence. These are traits we try to foster in the Art Studio. So how do we teach humility to children, to all the children we come in contact with? I have found some really nice examples from lots of different people. Here are a few:

First and for most: Adults should model humility themselves.
Help someone learn something new, and remember that children are natural teachers. Part of teaching is sharing. Sharing ideas as well as knowledge.
Teach children to be helpful. To notice when someone needs a little help. Teach them to offer their help. This may be something as simple as holding open a door for someone, grabbing a napkin if someone spills something, or helping to carry something if someone has too much in their hands.
Teach appreciation. Say “thank you” when someone has done something for you.
Encourage and help children to be the very best they can be—no matter what they do. Humility works best when your child has actually achieved something! Help your child achieve with confidence.
Expose children to the great teachers and their stories.
Teach children to value everyone. A truly humble person realizes that everyone needs to be respected. Introduce and expose your children to kids from other countries as well as other neighborhoods in your own city or town.
Teach children how to apologize when they make a mistake. Apologizing makes you place your pride aside, and it is one of the most humbling things you can do. Even if you are only a little wrong, apologize quickly without expecting anything in return.
Teach your children how to know themselves from the inside-out, rather than attempting to construct who they are by comparing who they are to others. If we are able to know ourselves from within, we are free to be. We are free to be incomparable and unique. And free to allow others their own unique qualities which can be appreciated on their own, and from which we may be able to learn and model new learning and capabilities.

Sources:

John David Hoag – http://www.nlpls.com/articles/humility.php

Stacy Zeiger- http://kids.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Activities_for_Kids_On_Humility

All Pro Dads – http://www.allprodad.com/top10/parenting/10-ways-to-teach-your-children-humility/

Casey Holley – http://www.livestrong.com/article/502504-how-to-teach-kids-to-be-humble/

“Our pride will tell us to stand up for ourselves, to demand to be seen and heard. A humble person knows they are important regardless if they are seen and heard and can set that station aside momentarily to serve another. Humility allows us to hold our own dignity in high regard and simultaneously behave in ways that celebrates the dignity of another.” I thank Cyndi Mesmer, mother of five and founder of a counseling center for these closing words! Let’s celebrate the dignity of one another today and every day.