The definition of ego is:
a.) An exaggerated sense of self-importance; conceit.
b.) Appropriate pride in oneself; self-esteem.
I have found the most successful leaders, business owners and professionals are those with true confidence. They have a certain amount of self-understanding that allows them to be comfortable in their own skin. Hence, definition b) fits. In addition to feeling confident in their own abilities, they also listen to others, take into account other people’s opinions and then decide which pieces of information are important to them and which are not. They have a discerning quality about them that gives them the confidence to alter their point of view and to do things in a different manner than they originally had planned. But they are very careful not to be swayed by popular belief or the flavor of the day. More often than not, their ego is by their side, helping them every step of the way through their career and personal life.
Alternatively, when looking at individuals whom I see as being less successful, I have found they try to manufacture a certain type of confidence and do not have a true understanding of their own self. They are the classic example of a.) in the above definition of ego. They tend not to listen to others and are not open to other people’s opinions.
While some succeed marginally, it is often fleeting and at the expense of others. What is the reason for this? An exaggerated sense of self-importance; conceit. It is the single biggest reason as to why those individuals do not have long lasting, meaningful and true success. I have seen truly amazing, talented, and creative individuals being held back from much greater opportunities than they could possibly imagine, if only they did not have their ego by their side, holding them back every step of the way.
If you take a good, honest look at your ego, what category do you fall into? Would it be a.) An exaggerated sense of self-importance; conceit, or b.) Appropriate pride in oneself; self-esteem. If it is a), then you may be able to achieve even greater results than you have achieved up until this point with some changes. If you fit definition b.), then congratulations to you!
In any event, look to have a healthy dose of confidence, self esteem and pride but do not forget that others can be your allies, your partners and your mentors. If you see the world in this way, you will become the best at whatever you put your mind to.
I wish you all the success in the world, now go out and BE the difference!
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