Why is the ego considered an enemy in achieving results?

The ego is often considered an enemy in achieving results because it tends to focus on abstract concepts and possibilities, rather than the concrete actions necessary to achieve results. It can become obsessed with ideas like passion and purpose, while neglecting the focused, deliberate work that actually leads to success. While passion can be a valuable driving force, it is ultimately secondary to putting in the effort required to achieve results.

This question was asked on the following book summary:

resource preview

Ego Is the Enemy

This book explains how people tend to think that the world revolves around them. The "it's all about me" approach comes from the ego, and this thinkin...

Download and customize 500+ business templates and translate PowerPoints

Go to dashboard to download stunning resources

Download

book summary Preview

resource preview
resource preview
View all chevron_right

Text this question was asked on:

Self-help books usually have a lot of well-meaning advice about passion. Find your passion, and you will find your purpose. Follow your passion, and you will find work you love. It sounds deep and profound, and while passion can be a valuable driving force, it still doesn't get the job done. The ego tends to obsess over concepts like these and is willing to spend a lot of time thinking about all those wonderful possibilities. What the ego doesn't want to think about is that focused, deliberate work is what gets results. It's great to have a passion for the work, but that passion is secondary to putting in the effort.

stars icon
Questions and answers
info icon

Some strategies to prioritize effort over passion include setting clear and measurable goals, creating a structured work schedule, focusing on the process rather than the outcome, and practicing discipline and consistency. It's also important to understand that while passion can provide motivation, it's the consistent effort that leads to results. Therefore, even if the passion wanes, the effort should remain consistent.

One can ensure that their passion is not overshadowed by their ego by focusing on the work and effort required to achieve their goals, rather than obsessing over the concept of passion itself. It's important to remember that while passion can be a valuable driving force, it is the focused, deliberate work that gets results. Therefore, one should strive to keep their ego in check and not let it take precedence over the hard work and effort that is required to truly follow one's passion.

View all questions
stars icon Ask another question

RELATED

resource image

Team Development

Want to attract top talent and motivate your team to achieve their best work? Use this Team Development presentation to properly structure skills training, coaching and mentorship initiatives, communicate benefits of learning & development, and ultimately get the most out of any talent pool.
resource image

Team Scheduling

How to keep teams on-task and collaborative across different locations and time zones? As hybrid work becomes a new norm, it’s crucial to have a solid structure for team schedules and task assignments. This Team Scheduling presentation provides templates to get everyone on the same page and avoid redundant back-and-forth communications.

resource image

Team Rewards & Recognition

How can you make your team feel valued and stay motivated? Wrap up the year on a high note and recognize and reward the high achievers on your team. Use this Team Appreciation presentation as an easy and thoughtful way to create cultures of engagement, inspire loyalty, and encourage high performance.

resource image

RACI Team Roles & Responsibilities

Even the most detailed and comprehensive project plans can fail due to uncertainty of participant roles, tasks and responsibilities. Use our RACI Team Roles and Responsibilities presentation and incorporate the battle-tested RACI matrix to amplify and improve every project’s outcome.