The ego is a funny beast. It’s that part of us that keeps us playing small – that tells us we can’t do things. That we’re not good enough. It’s the part of us that has to be right and gets defensive. The truth is that we are good enough, we can do it and we deserve to do it. It’s also beneficial to continue learning throughout our lives. It’s what helps us grow and reach new levels.
People operating from their egos get caught-up in the drama of the situation instead of being able to see the bigger picture. It’s no wonder that different decisions are made from this place. It’s a limited viewpoint where there doesn’t seem to be a lot of options.
On the other hand, when someone acts from the truth, they see things more clearly and can appreciate the bigger picture. Coming from this place instead is liberating and empowering. Even though it can be tempting to get caught up in another person’s drama, I can assure you that operating from this place is much more rewarding.
When you come from a place of truth, your business decisions, and all decisions really, are better. Imagine being defensive with clients. Yuck! Doesn’t this feel awful when someone else does this to you? It doesn’t make for a nice conversation. Try to remember how you felt on the receiving end when you’re tempted to react that way to someone else. Of course, we’ve all been there, so don’t beat yourself up about past encounters. They do help us to grow. The more you’re aware of it though, the more you can stop acting from that place.
Here are a few action steps that will help you move out of the ego and into the truth.
- Recall a time when you felt the need to be right at all costs and found yourself getting defensive. How did you feel afterwards? What was the outcome of the situation?
- Think about how the situation could have been different if you had let go of the need to be right and responded instead of reacted?
- Identify a current situation where it would be helpful to see the truth of a situation instead of getting caught up in someone else’s drama?
- What type of actions and decisions would you make coming from that place?
Whenever a situation escalates, really take a step back and ask yourself if it’s your ego that’s reacting. It almost always is. Take a few minutes – even a few seconds if that’s all you’ve got – to breathe and check yourself. Try to see the truth of what’s happening and where the other person is coming from. Think about how you can respond and not react. Sometimes it could be an email that sets you off. Don’t respond right away. Force yourself to take some time so that you can respond in a neutral way that won’t jeopardize the relationship.
These tips will ensure that you’re making good, sound business decisions. You will be moving forward instead of sabotaging your success.