Rick Pitino, in his book, The One-Day Contract, stresses the importance of humility in the successful life. We must see ourselves as part of a team and not as someone of importance. Whether that is a sports team, such as those coached by Rick Pitino, a work team or the team of humanity, it takes everyone working together to succeed.

He shared in his chapter on humility about people, including himself, who learned the hard way. It is so easy for us to think too highly of ourselves after experiencing a great success. However, that is the quickest way to fall. When we feel that we are invincible because we achieved something, and think we accomplished it on our own, we are likely to be on our face very soon.

Pitino shares some wisdom of others in his book. He says that “Bob Russell calls humility the slippery virtue, because just when you feel like you have it, pride can come back and it can slip away from you. John Wooten said, ‘talent is God-given; be humble. Fame is man-given; be grateful. Conceit is self-given; be careful.’”

Andy Andrews expresses in several of his books how that each person’s actions affect those around them. It is important that we realize we need each other. When we recognize this and live in humility, it will create an attitude of gratitude within us. Pitino states, “Humility and gratitude leave your heart and mind open to receive unexpected blessings, even on the heels of disappointment. Learning the lesson of humility not only can change your life, it can change the lives of others around you.”

Why humility? According to Pitino, “From observing the best and competing against the most talented, as well as experiencing the cruel turns of events that change one’s life, I can tell you that not only is humility the key to finding lasting success, but it is the key to lasting happiness. You can wake up in the morning and understand what contentment is all about.”

How are you going to find humility and begin today to live . . . life to the fullest?