Why do executives need to do inner work? So that it frees them to achieve beyond imagination. Inner work means confronting ego which blocks the path of growth.
A story of growth and ego
Clint, a high-profile executive, was on track to become a partner. He breezed through interviews with confidence, convinced he knew exactly what the firm needed. Yet, the decision was deferred. The setback hit his ego hard.
Disheartened, Clint made one last effort to seek feedback. One of the stakeholders who favored him suggested to work with a coach. Reluctantly, he agreed.
“What can I do to make it through? I know I am deserving.” Clint asked his coach.
“Lets see how others see you.” The coach suggested
The coach obtained feedback which was revealing. Clint’s brilliance was undeniable. But he also had some significant blind spots. His single‑minded pursuit of ideas made him appear like a bull in a china shop. His struggle was his ego – acknowledging that others can disagree even when he is right.
With the coach’s guidance, Clint let go of the “smartest person in the room” identity. He stopped carrying the weight of others’ expectations. This freed him emotionally and cognitively. When reconsidered for partnership, Clint showed up differently – detached from outcomes, more collaborative, and lighter in presence. This time he made it.
Clint realized that the coaching was not about becoming a partner. It was about becoming a seasoned professional who no longer let ego limit his growth.
Past successes and failures can trap executives into narrow narratives. Inner work breaks those chains. Ego limits; inner work liberates.
For your reflection
- When was the last time you let go of your ego?
- What became possible when you freed yourself from ego’s grip?
- How would your leadership change if you set aside ego at work?
“The ego is your self‑image; it is your social mask; it thrives on approval, wants control, and is sustained by power because it lives in fear.” – Deepak Chopra