Life Step 7: Humility & Openness

Help wanted!

“Real strength often whispers: I can’t do this alone.”

Why Humility & Openness Matter

Humility is often misunderstood. It’s not about shrinking yourself, being passive, or denying your strengths.

Humility is the courage to see yourself clearly—your limits, your needs, your humanity—and to remain open to support, feedback, and growth.

Think of humility like opening a window in a stuffy room.

Fresh air comes in.

Perspective shifts.

You can breathe again.

Openness paired with humility invites new ideas, healthier connections, and deeper understanding. It allows us to say:

“I don’t know everything.”

“I need help.”

“I can learn.”

“I can grow.”

These statements aren’t weaknesses—they’re foundations of transformation.

Humility isn’t self-reduction.

It’s self-expansion through honesty.

How Life Step 7 Supports Mental Health

• Reduces perfectionism by embracing imperfection

• Strengthens relationships through vulnerability and collaboration

• Encourages growth by staying receptive to learning

• Builds emotional resilience by acknowledging limits

• Supports recovery from burnout by normalizing help-seeking

Humility clears the space where change becomes possible.

Reflection Corner

1. Where in my life do I feel pressure to “do it all” alone?

2. What emotions come up when I imagine asking for help?

3. Who in my life feels safe to lean on?

4. What feedback or support have I been resisting that might actually help me grow?

Small Practice

Choose one place in your life where you’ve been carrying everything solo.

Then take one step toward openness:

• Ask for help

• Get another perspective

• Share what you’re struggling with

• Receive support without apologizing

• Let someone teach you something new

Afterward, reflect: How did it feel to open the door—even just a little?

Humility is powerful when practiced in small, consistent ways.

Looking Ahead

Once humility softens your defenses and opens you to growth, the next step leads toward repair—acknowledging harms, making amends, and owning your part in relationships.

 Up next: Life Step 8: Repair & Responsibility

Last tidbit :)

Humility is a trait known to everyone, yet few use theirs."

Your Therapist,

- Megan Cerney, LCSW

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