"One does not need to be an egotistical maniac to be successful. This is one of the most misleading and destructive myths in all of Western culture."

The Ego is a confusing paradox. Many are in agreement that ego was bad, that it destroyed creativity and happiness, that they knew plenty of toxic egomaniacs who had wrecked themselves. But they still think Ego is important.

The Ego is confusing

It starts where our notion of ourselves and the world grows so strong that it begins to distort the reality which surrounds us. The ego has then succeeded in completely separating us from the world.

Trouble starts with Ego

It is a deep and continuous connection to the world around us. The Ego disconnects us from reality, stifling creativity.

The Essence of Creativity

<ul><li>Confidence is based on what is real and it's earned. It does not alienate us from others.</li><li>Ego is based on delusion and wishful thinking. It is artifice and makes us self-centered.</li></ul>

Confidence vs Ego

We all have goals: We want to matter. We want to be important. We want to have freedom and power to pursue our creative work. We want respect from our peers and recognition for our accomplishments. Not out of vanity or selfishness, but of an earnest desire to fulfill our personal potential.

Understand yourself and those around you.

RYAN HOLIDAY

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Doomsday prophecies

9. Sharing / Giving

All-or-nothing thinking