From Ego to Ergo
Engagement is a journey beyond the self, challenging you to chart your own path, persevere through frustration, resist the allure of noble yet ineffective causes, and tune into the (inner) voice of wisdom amid the background noise.
If you agree to gear up for a treasure hunt with no clear end, then you’ll discover that your own self is just one of the many companions on the journey. In this section, we help you navigate the ego traps that can arise during engagement for a cause.
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Ego Trap: Omni-benevolence: I should do good.
Risk: Inhibition.
Side-Step: If you manage the back and forth between action and reflection, then your need for external validation is less.
Tough Question: To what extent do you feel the need to save the day?
Realisation: Ultimately, it’s not about you.
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Ego Trap: Omni-potence: I am the only one who can do it.
Risk: Burn out.
Side-Step: If you distinguish your sphere of concern from your sphere of influence, then you can focus your efforts more effectively.
Tough Question: What boundaries do you set on your actions?
Realisation: The ones who show up are the ones making a difference.
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Ego Trap: Omni-science: I know better.
Risk: Hierarchisation of causes.
Side-Step: If you take ownership of the perspective from which you speak (and the privileges that come with it), then others can do the same.
Tough Question: How can you give others the benefit of the doubt?
Realisation: People can leverage you for their own causes.
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Ego Trap: Omni-presence: I am indispensable.
Risk: Loss of meaning.
Side-Step: If you recognise that you don’t know how others interpret what you share, then you’ll know making sense isn’t solely your responsibility.
Tough Question: How can you let go of control?
Realisation: It’s about being available, not being always on.
© Baptiste Raymond - tembocitizen.com