Lessons from Shakespeare: A Journey Through Humility and Humor

The Impact of a Great Teacher

I had an English teacher in high school named Mr. Bowman who made Shakespeare fun. He had a dry sense of humor that clicked with me. He always seemed to teach more about life than just the words on the page. His lessons were not just about literature; they were about navigating the complexities of life.

By my senior year, I thought I was clever. I didn’t owe the library any fees, and I didn’t have any unreturned books. However, I did need the librarian’s signature on my report card to graduate. She and I had a rocky relationship. Because I didn’t ask her nicely, she refused to sign it right then. I'm sure I was not a smarty britches?!? lol

A Lesson in Humility

So, I did the impulsive thing. I signed her name myself. Mr. Bowman knew. I'm not sure if he knew or if I told on myself in defiance. He didn’t yell or lecture. Instead, he made sure I learned. He walked me into that library full of students, had me confess to what I had done, and ask her again the right way.

The librarian didn’t make it easy. She had me repeat my apology loud enough for everyone in the room to hear—more than once. My pride shrank smaller with each word, and the humiliation burned. When it was over, Mr. Bowman simply said, “Sometimes we have to eat crow, Ms. Smith.”

That was the real lesson. Shortcuts don’t get you where you want to go. Pride can land you in a mess, but humility will get you out of it. Not gently, for sure. Owning your mistakes, especially in front of others, is hard, but it’s the kind of lesson that stays with you long after the class ends.

The Humor in Learning

And in true Mr. Bowman fashion, even his final exam carried that same blend of humor and wit. His bonus question asked, “What was Macbeth’s dog’s name?” The answer? Spot. A clever nod to Lady Macbeth’s line, “Out, damned spot!” It was his way of reminding us that learning could be serious and playful all at once, just like life.

PS: No one in class got the bonus question on the exam. I'm pretty sure I am the only one that laughed at the joke. Hi-Larry-Us!

The Importance of Lifelong Learning

Learning doesn’t stop after high school. In fact, it’s just the beginning. As we move into our careers, the lessons we learn can shape our professional lives. Embracing humility and the ability to laugh at ourselves can be invaluable traits in any field.

Embracing Challenges

In the world of business, challenges are inevitable. Whether you're dealing with a difficult client or navigating a tricky project, the ability to approach these situations with a sense of humor can lighten the load. It’s important to remember that everyone makes mistakes. What matters is how we respond to them.

Building Strong Relationships

Just as Mr. Bowman taught me the value of humility, building strong relationships in the workplace is crucial. When we own our mistakes and communicate openly, we foster trust. This trust can lead to better collaboration and a more positive work environment.

The Role of Humor in Business

Humor can be a powerful tool in business. It can ease tension, foster creativity, and improve morale. When we can laugh together, we build camaraderie. This is especially true in industries like home services and trades, where teamwork is essential for success.

Learning from Others

Just as I learned from Mr. Bowman, we can learn from our peers and mentors in our professional lives. Seeking feedback and being open to constructive criticism can help us grow. It’s important to remember that every experience is an opportunity to learn.

Conclusion: The Takeaway

In conclusion, the lessons I learned from Mr. Bowman extend far beyond the classroom. They remind me that humility, humor, and a willingness to learn are essential in both life and business. So, as you navigate your own journey, remember to embrace your mistakes, laugh at yourself, and always be open to learning. After all, life is a continuous lesson, and we are all students in this grand classroom.

And if you ever find yourself in a bind, just remember: sometimes we all have to eat crow.