"People always tell you to be humble. When was the last time someone told you to be great?"

Let’s dive into it. You know how we often hear people telling us to stay humble? It’s practically a mantra. But when was the last time someone genuinely encouraged you to aim for greatness? That’s the core idea here. It's about the rarity of hearing someone push you to excel, to truly be extraordinary.

Historically, the notion of humility has deep roots. Various cultures and religions have long celebrated humility as a virtue. Think about figures like Mahatma Gandhi or Mother Teresa—icons of modesty and service. They’ve set a high bar, and their stories are often used to teach us the value of being humble. There's no denying it's important, but the emphasis on humility can sometimes overshadow the equally crucial pursuit of greatness.

Now, let’s look at a real-world example. Imagine a young athlete, let's call her Sarah. Sarah’s coaches and parents constantly remind her to stay grounded, not to get a big head despite her talent. They mean well, of course. But what if, instead, they balanced that advice with encouragement to push her limits? What if they told her to embrace her potential fully and strive for greatness? Sarah might grow not just into a humble person, but also a phenomenal athlete who inspires others.

So, how do you apply this idea in your life? Start by recognizing your strengths and talents. Don’t shy away from them. It’s okay to acknowledge what you’re good at. Set ambitious goals. Write them down. Tell someone you trust about your aspirations—sometimes saying them out loud makes them feel more real, more achievable. And while you’re at it, remember that being ambitious doesn’t mean you’re not humble. You can aim for greatness with grace.

Imagine a scenario: You’re at a job interview, and the interviewer asks you about your career goals. Instead of the usual modesty, what if you confidently shared your big dreams? You could say, “In five years, I see myself leading a team towards innovative solutions that can change the industry.” Bold, right? But also inspiring. The interviewer can see your vision and might be more inclined to invest in someone who’s aiming high.

Now, let’s get personal. Think about your friends or family. When was the last time you told someone close to you that you believe they can achieve something great? Maybe your friend is an amazing artist, but they’ve never thought about selling their work. Or your sibling is a fantastic writer, but they’ve never considered publishing. Next time you chat, tell them. Encourage them. It could be the push they need to take their talents seriously.

In short, while humility is undoubtedly valuable, don't let it be the only guiding star. Balance it with a drive for greatness. Recognize your potential, set lofty goals, and encourage those around you to do the same. It's about harmonizing humility with ambition, creating a mindset where you can be proud of your achievements and still remain grounded. That’s the sweet spot where real growth happens. So next time you tell someone to be humble, also remind them to be great. They might just surprise you.