9Working with Your Ego
The first half of life is devoted to forming a healthy ego, the second half is going inward and letting go of it.
– C.G. Jung
To not only acknowledge and accept our ego as our ally, but to understand it and work with it – that may well be our biggest challenge.
Not to pretend it doesn't exist, nor to debase it. Not to abhor it, nor to fight it. Not to assume a self-righteous, superior stand by pointing it out in others, with statements like “that guy's ego is bigger than his brains.”
The ego is in all of us. It helps us. And it is distorted for most of us. The Dalai Lama has an ego and so does the communist czar of China. The janitor has an ego and so does the chairman of the board.
Beware of mystics and philosophers who urge you to negate your ego and annihilate it completely. That is all very good if you seek a spiritual path and a monastic life in the mountains. In the world of business, you absolutely need your ego, but as a faithful ally – and a strong wingman. One that will help take the reins and navigate your journey skillfully through stormy weather, making sure the plane does not crash. A healthy ego guides us toward stability, skillful management of life, and financial independence. First the ego should help stabilize your own position. And then strive to rise above ...
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