Ego may be a powerful ally or a dangerous enemy in the complex game of work life. A good dosage of ego can give people confidence and motivation, enabling them to speak up for themselves and vigorously pursue their objectives.
However, if you allow it to go amok, it turns into a saboteur that muddies communication lines, fosters conceit and stifles teamwork. To steer toward a culture where humility and cooperation take centre stage, one must have a clear understanding of the ego’s complex role and navigate this delicate balance.
The dangers of workplace ego
Just like a blazing engine, ego ignites people’s desire for achievement and ambition, pushing them to aim high in their career aspirations. It encourages taking calculated chances, grasping opportunities, and exhibiting audacity in competitive settings. Such assurance serves as a lighthouse, gaining respect and confidence from both leaders and peers.
Furthermore, ego is the unrelenting guide that leads people to bold invention and constant progress. It pushes individuals toward bold objectives and beyond the comfortable boundaries of their comfort zones. Ego becomes the essential engine that drives progress and ignites revolutionary change in a society where ingenuity and adaptability are valued above all else.
The dangers of unrestrained ego
But when the ego is given free rein, it can rise to conceit and entitlement, causing people to exaggerate their talents and minimise the contributions of others. This may lead to the development of a toxic workplace marked by discord, animosity, and a lack of teamwork.
Reluctance to admit vulnerability or ask for help is one of the most subtle ways that ego shows up in the workplace. The idea that one must present an air of invincibility can keep people from admitting their shortcomings and asking for help when they need it, which can ultimately impede their development and the advancement of their team.
Furthermore, an unchecked ego can encourage complacency and a dislike of feedback which keeps people from realising where they need to grow and stunts their ability to advance professionally. This may be disastrous for both people and companies in a world that is changing quickly and where flexibility and ongoing learning are essential.
Make intelligent use of your ego’s influence and learn how to control it while developing the skill of humility by using these tactical methods:
Embrace the 70/30 Rule when it comes to communication
Allow others to offer their thoughts and ideas by resisting the impulse to dominate conversations with your own beliefs and accomplishments. Show humility by spending 70% of the conversation listening and setting aside 30% for intelligent, succinct comments.
By doing this, you can make sure that you give others the freedom to express themselves completely and that you are focused on getting their viewpoint before you share your own views.
Remain accepting of suggestions
Accept criticism and use it as a chance for personal development; avoid the urge to minimise or divert it. Recognise that improvement is necessary for both professional and personal development, and use other people’s advice as a tool for introspection and learning.
Recognise your shortcomings and opportunities for growth, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice or help from others when you need it. Understand that asking for assistance is a show of strength rather than weakness and that working together is crucial to success in the job.
Build humility and self-awareness
Consider your feelings, ideas, and actions, and be aware of how your ego might be influencing them. Remember that you are all human and that everyone has flaws and strive to keep a humble attitude toward others and yourself.
A useful mindfulness method that many of my clients appreciate is the 4-4-4 technique, sometimes referred to as box breathing. Just take four deep breaths, hold them for four counts, and then release them for four counts whenever you feel your ego taking over and triggering yourself. You can act with intention by repeating this technique multiple times to calm your nervous system and restore mental clarity.
Acknowledge other people’s contributions
If your supervisor hasn’t acknowledged you, you could be tempted to act in the same way toward the other members of your team. Remember that desire stems from the ego and that acknowledging and expressing gratitude to others builds stronger relationships than keeping quiet. Take the lead in changing. Encourage an environment in the workplace where people value and appreciate one another’s accomplishments, both as individuals and as teams.
In conclusion, creating a positive and productive work atmosphere in the workplace requires striking a careful balance between ambition and harmony. Organisations can foster a culture that enables employees to flourish both individually and collectively by promoting ambition alongside harmony and teamwork. It’s important to keep in mind that embracing both sides will result in a vibrant and peaceful workplace where success is attained with honesty and respect for one another.
(Tashia Bernardus)