A Bit Less Expertise Is OK, A Bit Less Humanity Is Poisonous

“A bit less expertise is OK, a bit less humanity is Poisonous.” ~ Varun Suri

In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy to get swept up in the pursuit of knowledge, skill, and technical mastery. But there’s a deeper truth that we must remember: success isn’t just about what we know, it’s about who we are. Expertise can take us far, but it’s our humanity—our empathy, kindness, and connection with others—that truly makes the journey worthwhile. Without that, even the most skilled among us can find themselves adrift.

The Essence of Humanity in the Workplace

Southwest Airlines: Where Connection Matters

Let’s take a moment to consider Southwest Airlines. Now, here’s a company that built its reputation not just on operational efficiency, but on something more enduring—its people. Herb Kelleher, the company’s co-founder, once said, “We take great care of our employees, and they, in turn, take great care of our customers.” This wasn’t just a slogan, it was a way of life. By putting humanity first, Southwest created a culture where employees felt valued and connected. The result? Exceptional customer service, loyalty that other companies only dream of, and a thriving business. You see, Southwest wasn’t just flying planes—they were building relationships. And in the end, that made all the difference.

The Enron Collapse: When Expertise Isn’t Enough

Now, contrast that with the story of Enron, a company that, for a time, had it all—top-tier talent, cutting-edge expertise, and a reputation for being the smartest in the room. But in their quest to outdo everyone else, they lost sight of something far more important: ethics, empathy, and humanity. They were so focused on winning the game that they forgot to ask if the game was worth playing. The result? One of the biggest corporate scandals in history. Their expertise couldn’t save them because they had poisoned the very foundation of trust and integrity.

Humanity in Personal Relationships: The True Measure of Success

The Overworked Father: A Wake-Up Call

Let’s turn our attention to a story closer to home—a successful businessman who, like so many of us, was driven by the desire to succeed. He was at the top of his game, climbing the corporate ladder, and mastering his field. But in the process, he missed out on something irreplaceable—time with his family. He was so focused on being the best at work that he lost sight of being the best at home. One day, his young daughter asked him, “Dad, do you love your work more than you love us?” That simple question was like a lightning bolt to his heart. He realized that while he was succeeding in his career, he was failing in what truly mattered. Expertise had earned him a title, but he was losing the connection with his family—the very people he was working so hard for.

Friendships: The Cost of Neglecting Humanity

Think about your friendships. We’ve all known someone who was brilliant, but distant. They might have all the knowledge in the world, but when it comes to being there in times of need, they’re nowhere to be found. Over time, no matter how knowledgeable they are, the lack of humanity erodes the relationship. Friendships, like all relationships, thrive not on expertise, but on compassion, understanding, and the willingness to be there for each other.

Embracing Humanity: A Strategy for True Success

Prioritize People Over Processes

Whether in your personal life or your career, make it a point to prioritize humanity. Strive for excellence, yes, but never at the expense of treating others with kindness and respect. When faced with decisions, ask yourself, “How will this affect the people around me?” Focus on building connections and trust. Expertise can solve problems, but humanity prevents them from arising in the first place.

Foster Empathy in Leadership

If you’re in a position of leadership, let empathy be your guide. Encourage open communication, listen to your team’s concerns, and show them that you value their well-being. This approach not only builds a strong team but also creates an environment where everyone feels supported and motivated to give their best. Remember, it’s the human touch that inspires loyalty and dedication.

Cultivate Balance in Personal Life

In your personal life, don’t let success come at the cost of your relationships. Make time for your loved ones, be present in their lives, and show them that they matter more than any title or achievement. Expertise will help you reach your goals, but it’s humanity that will make your journey worthwhile.

Conclusion: Humanity Is the Foundation of True Success

In the pursuit of success, it’s easy to get caught up in the race to be the best, to know the most, to achieve more than anyone else. But never forget that a bit less expertise is OK—it can be learned, improved, and acquired over time. However, a bit less humanity is poisonous—it corrodes relationships, undermines trust, and ultimately leads to failure, both professionally and personally.

Success isn’t just about what you achieve; it’s about who you are and how you treat others along the way. Embrace humanity, nurture your connections, and let your expertise be guided by compassion. That’s the true path to lasting success and fulfillment.

Citations:

1. Lessons in Loyalty: How Southwest Airlines Does It – An Insider’s View by Lorraine Grubbs-West
2. Enron scandal by Peter Bondarenko on Britannica