As the calendar flips to September, I am committing this entire month to focus on humility—something I do annually. My middle name is James, and this particular month holds deep significance for me, not just because of the commitment to humility, but also because my favorite Bible verse, James 4:10, speaks directly to it: “Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.”
This verse is a constant reminder that there is no exaltation without first embracing humility. Born on April 10, the fourth month and the 10th day, the symbolism of humility holds personal resonance in my life.
Humility, to me, is not about thinking less of myself but rather thinking of others more. It’s the foundation upon which all my other core values stand, and each September I return to this value, renewing my commitment to it. Throughout the year, I focus on a core value for each month, but September is when I intentionally root myself in humility.
True humility extends beyond grand gestures; it lives in the small, daily acts that show we value others. In baseball terms, it’s like rounding the bases by doing the simple things: saying, “Please” and “Thank you,” listening with empathy, and speaking truthfully from a place of care and understanding. These small acts, while easy to overlook, make a profound impact and demonstrate humility in everyday life.
Several years ago, I was leading a project where I held the position of authority. My team looked to me for direction, but I quickly noticed that one of my colleagues had an incredible idea that could lead to success for the entire group. Instead of taking ownership of the idea, I humbled myself, gave them the credit, and encouraged them to present it.
The success that followed wasn’t mine—it was shared. That experience taught me that leadership isn’t about who gets the praise, but about creating space for others to shine. True humility is recognizing when to step back so others can step forward.
As you reflect on your own journey, here are four questions to ask yourself, formatted like rounding the baseball bases:
First Base:
Do I genuinely acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of others, even when they outshine my own efforts?
Second Base:
When I listen to someone, am I focused on understanding their perspective, or am I simply waiting for my turn to speak?
Third Base:
Do I speak from a place of honesty and truth, even when it might be uncomfortable or less flattering to my ego?
Home Plate:
When I succeed, do I give credit to those who helped me, or do I seek praise and recognition for myself?*
Humility isn’t always the easiest path, but it’s the most rewarding. Let’s all commit this September to cultivating a deeper sense of humility in our lives—by thinking more of others and allowing the Lord to do the exalting. And for me, this is not just a September tradition; it’s a core value I return to every year, with each month bringing a new focus.
Remember: Intelligence tops being smart.
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C.J. Stewart has built a reputation as one of the leading professional hitting instructors in the country. He is a former professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization and has also served as an associate scout for the Cincinnati Reds. As founder and CEO of Diamond Directors Player Development, C.J. has more than 22 years of player development experience and has built an impressive list of clients, including some of the top young prospects in baseball today. If your desire is to change your game for the better, C.J. Stewart has a proven system of development and a track record of success that can work for you.
