The ego is defined as the representation that an individual has of himself. It therefore increases or becomes impoverished during the different moments of life. The more the Man feels valued and supported, the more his ego will increase. Conversely, a devaluation and a lack of constant support lead to a noticeable decrease in the ego.
Although this is a generality, a similar phenomenon can be found in the business world. Notable success is usually accompanied by an increase in the ego. An oversized ego leads the leader to no longer listen to the people around him, thinking he is the master of absolute knowledge. This affects, logically, reflections and decision-making.
To illustrate this, let us cite the case of the Carlsberg group. Cees’t Hart (CEO), explains that he preferred to leave his VIP office where he saw almost no one to occupy a more modest office, in the middle of everyone and thus be able to manage his team efficiently. Similar to Cees’t Hart, his ego has “gone down a level.” An excessive ego goes hand in hand with isolation, cutting off contact with other employees.

Why does the ego experience a parallel increase in power?

When we acquire power, everyone will pay more attention to us, and will have a tendency to acquiesce. These two factors promote an increase in ego, otherwise known as “hubris syndrome”. It is necessary to be careful not to lose an objective perception of reality along the way and to go against its values.

The ego and its negative impacts

We find a certain number of negative impacts, the result of an inflated ego.
Our starting point will be that the ego makes us more vulnerable. It also requires special attention, which is why if others perceive it, it will be easy for them to manipulate.

The constraint of being perceived as an admirable being pushes one to make mistakes for oneself, others and, on a larger scale, the company. The ego encourages us to become selfish. Thus, it is more complex to understand the consequences of our mistakes.

Moreover, an inflated ego reduces the field of vision of the one who possesses it through an incessant and obstinate search for reason. The person thus closes himself in a kind of bubble that forces him to perceive only the accommodating elements.

This causes a surrender of all contact with others.

Potential solutions as a leader

In order to free oneself from this bubble that is harmful to everyone, it is necessary to make efforts, to show temerity, altruism and reflection. To do this, it is advisable to:

List the benefits and profits arising from your status within the company in order to bring you closer to others.
Maintain and develop relationships with people who are not afraid to express their feelings.
Focus on being grateful, empathetic, and humble on a daily basis.

A good leader cannot have an inflated ego because the question of leadership is above all human. You have to be able to put your ego aside when you need to and thus broaden your field of vision, as well as your perspective.

To find the original article by Jacqueline Carter and Rasmus Hougaard: https://www.hbrfrance.fr/ chroniques-experts/2018/12/23564-lego-is-the-enemy-of-good-leaders/