In Hu's study, reflecting on past mistakes was hypothesized to influence what trait in leaders?

• A. Creativity
• B. Punctuality
• C. Humility
• D. Aggression

Answer: (C)

Reflecting on past mistakes trains leaders to see their own limits and fallibility. That realization tends to soften the ego, encourage openness to feedback, and motivate ongoing learning—qualities that define humility. In Hu's study, the idea is that considering errors would boost a leader’s humility, making them more willing to admit uncertainty, credit others, and adjust their views in light of new information. Creativity is about generating novel ideas and isn’t directly tied to acknowledging mistakes; punctuality concerns timely behavior rather than self-perceived limits; aggression involves hostile behavior and isn’t the direct outcome of error reflection, though humility can indirectly reduce it. So the trait most directly influenced by reflecting on past mistakes is humility—the tendency to recognize limits, value others’ input, and pursue growth.