Have You Met Pride and Ego?

My phone rang and the man's trembling voice relayed that he'd had a pretty rough morning. After 21 years on the job, his new boss had "cut him loose." Cut him loose with four weeks of severance. "Probably have to sign some papers...don't know what I'll do. I'm 59."

In our conversation, he alluded to the fact that he was a "friend" of the owner of the business. He went on to say that the "friend" was an "older gentleman" not that much involved in the business anymore. And yes, it had crossed his mind to call the owner "but you know, my pride and ego won't let me."

Pride and ego won't let me. Familiar words...words I've heard many times before. Has Pride kept you from reaching out? Does Ego get in the way of asking for help? Have you met Pride and Ego? Have they helped your career? Hurt you? Maybe Pride and Ego serve you well. And then again, maybe they don't. Ask yourself: Does Pride make my house payment? Does Ego buy my groceries?

Consider this...if Pride and Ego are not working for you, how about putting pride aside and letting go of the ego? Go get what you want (and need) with an attitude of gratitude, unencumbered by the shackles of Pride and Ego, if indeed they are stymieing your efforts to move forward.

posted by: billiesucher