The ego is a natural part of human nature until we twist it negatively to satisfy our dependence on worldly things and feel the need to let go of ego. I was trying to comprehend what exactly the term implies and found out that “ego” derives from Greek and Latin languages, meaning literally “I”. If explained more philosophically, it denotes selfhood.
Many authors have written about ego. They say it branches out into two types- healthy egotism vs. egotism. Most of us keep alternating between the two. Healthy egotism have got very slight differences which usually are unidentifiable.
A healthy egotism originates from love; the connected, correlated self of a healthy ego. Egotism, on the other hand, is rooted in hurt; the separate, self-centered self that feels inferior or superior. With that said, it is obvious that egotism is a fruit of love or hate. This is why I’m here to write about how to let go of ego which is unhealthy as it fuels the negativity in our personality.
Rewarding ways to let go of ego
Finding these challenging practices will always help in chasing away the unhealthy egotism and fostering positive self-esteem.
1. Prioritize your beliefs over everything
The first stage to letting go of your ego is to find out which principles or beliefs matter the most. Do you prioritize money? Does public opinion about yourself keep you awake at night? Also, whether these people are in your friends and family circle or not? Whatever you value in life, do not associate your pride with it. Make your mind clear and see the bigger picture.
If money is your number one value, forget the egotism and let it assist you in making a stable life with financial security. Similarly, if your loved ones are the dearest thing you possess, never let your selfdom come in the way and avoid situations where people take advantage of you.
2. Recognize the factors that trigger your ego
After you’re confident about your true values, try to figure out what situations are most likely triggering your ego. Anything can cause it. For example, my ego gets in the way when I get hurt. Not just this, but I get hurt easily. This is why I’m often ego-driven. After realizing my weak point, I’ve started to be more generous.
Try to give people leeway and overlook their errors. Moreover, make capacity within yourself and welcome disagreement with a clear mind and open dialogue. Likewise, determine your soft spot and work on it.
3. Evaluate and assume the positive outcome
To make your investment more fruitful, try to improve yourself and be an all-rounder. Being wrapped up in dealing with your egotism is tiresome and won’t have any meritorious outcomes. Polishing your skills, and working on your personality or relationships can boost your healthy ego.
Apart from these three primary ways, there are some golden words from the famous book of David Richo that I would like to quote here. In his book “Shortcuts of Letting Go Ego”, he has talked about some effective ways to let go of ego.
- “Follow the Golden Rule: act toward others as you would want them to act toward you.”
- “Keep the needs of others in mind, especially in little ways- an antidote to selfishness.”
- “Acknowledge not knowing something or showing that you need support or help with something.”
- “Apologize. Make amends.”
- “Do good to those who hate you, pray or wish enlightenment for those who have betrayed, failed, or mistreated you.”
