The concept of “virtue” traces its roots back to the Latin word virtus, which conveys meanings of “power,” “potential,” and “courage.” Socrates, the renowned Greek philosopher from the 5th century BC, believed that virtue is a form of practical knowledge that is honed through continual introspection of our choices and behaviors.
A succinct yet insightful definition of virtue that I stumbled upon on Google states that it is the quality of doing what is right and shunning what is wrong.
Now, picture this scenario: the mystical “genie” from Aladdin’s lamp materializes before you, offering to grant you one wish. If prompted with the question, “What virtue would you like to cultivate?”, what would your response be?
In my perspective, humility is a cornerstone trait for any effective leader across all spheres of life. Therefore, if I were to directly address the genie in the lamp, I would implore for assistance in nurturing humility within myself to vanquish any traces of arrogance in my personal and professional endeavors.
- Shedding the belief that I am always in the right.
- Combatting the insidious notion of superiority.
- Embracing constructive feedback and advice with an open mind.
- Fostering self-awareness and inner growth.
- Setting an example of diligence and relinquishing procrastination.
Notably, this time around, I opted to forgo sharing a narrative—be it personal, familial, professional, or societal—and instead offered genuine reflections grounded in the virtue I aspire to nurture further.
As the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers unfold, with teams vying for a coveted spot in the tournament, consider what is at stake in your own endeavors. Seize the moment and embark on diligent efforts towards your goals.
- Seeking to be a leader? Embrace humility.
- Striving to be an exceptional leader? Cultivate even greater humility.
- Aiming to transcend and excel as a leader? Embrace profound humility.
(Adapting a quote from Saint Augustine of Hippo)
Let us persist in our journey against the tide. As our Argentine counterparts exclaim: ¡Vamos! (Let’s go!), and in the spirit of Peruvian optimism: ¡Si se puede!
