I really like this dichotomy between ego and intuition. You lay it out perfectly and explain it clearly. I never really thought about it this way before, but the ideal might be to strike a balance between the more positive aspects of ego (self-protection, motivation, etc.) and intuition as you describe it.
Well said! Exactly, and even over the past year, I've come to think about the stoic concept of “ego is enemy” a bit differently. I deeply appreciate Stoicism and love Ryan Hokiday’s take in his book, and I think we can be more intentional about language. I no longer desire to label an innate part of me as my enemy. That speaks to hostility, and ego feeds on that.
This struck a chord—especially the distinction between leading with responsibility vs. authority. That framing alone has so many ripple effects on team dynamics, trust, and long-term outcomes.
I also appreciated the gentle reframing of ego—not as the villain, but as a protective instinct that just needs boundaries. That nuance often gets lost in leadership discourse. Thanks for articulating this so clearly (and practically).
Yes absolutely Josh. We need more of the human side of leadership. If we did, people wouldn't be so miserable at work. Musk got that all wrong. We need more empathy in leaders not less.
I really like this dichotomy between ego and intuition. You lay it out perfectly and explain it clearly. I never really thought about it this way before, but the ideal might be to strike a balance between the more positive aspects of ego (self-protection, motivation, etc.) and intuition as you describe it.
Well said! Exactly, and even over the past year, I've come to think about the stoic concept of “ego is enemy” a bit differently. I deeply appreciate Stoicism and love Ryan Hokiday’s take in his book, and I think we can be more intentional about language. I no longer desire to label an innate part of me as my enemy. That speaks to hostility, and ego feeds on that.
This struck a chord—especially the distinction between leading with responsibility vs. authority. That framing alone has so many ripple effects on team dynamics, trust, and long-term outcomes.
I also appreciated the gentle reframing of ego—not as the villain, but as a protective instinct that just needs boundaries. That nuance often gets lost in leadership discourse. Thanks for articulating this so clearly (and practically).
I really appreciate the feedback, Julie! Thanks for taking the time to read and offer your thoughtful perspective!
Yes absolutely Josh. We need more of the human side of leadership. If we did, people wouldn't be so miserable at work. Musk got that all wrong. We need more empathy in leaders not less.