The Canvas Strategy - How to keep your ego in check

Fresh out of university, Tariq and Zain both applied for and got jobs at the same company. But a few years later their careers were on totally different trajectories.

Tariq graduated with 1st class honours.

And he made sure everyone knew.

He felt his degree meant he could refuse to do work that he thought was below him. When he did do work he was very vocal about it and claimed credit for even the smallest bit of work.

Whereas Zain was happy to take on any work that came his way. Even if it was small tasks to make his colleagues or boss's work easier.

He shied away from taking credit even when he deserved it. Although he also graduated with 1st class honours, he saw every task as a chance to gain valuable experience and knowledge, allowing him to get better so he could contribute more to the team.

As time went on, Tariq's graduate knowledge and showing off got him attention early on. But after a while his growth stagnated as he refused to learn more or take feedback on board. Colleagues were reluctant to work with him. His attitude and arrogance put people off from working with him.

He became isolated.

Zain became an integral part of the team.

He developed a deep understanding of the company and his role. He became the guy everyone went to for help or advice. Colleagues loved working with him and were grateful to have him as a part of the team.

So when a promotion opportunity came up, the choice was easy to make.

This story just goes to show how you can become a victim of your ego allowing pride and overconfidence to hinder personal growth and professional relationships.

Zain's approach is a perfect example of what Ryan Holiday calls 'The Canvas Strategy' in his book 'Ego is the Enemy'.

This strategy is a powerful tool for keeping your ego in check, especially for new graduates.

I'm currently reading Ego is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday, and this idea is something I wish I knew 10 years ago when I was a fresh faced pharmacist.

"Be lesser, do more" – Ryan Holiday

Instead of focusing on yourself and showing how great you are, it's all about being in service to those around you. Whether above or below you. You're always trying to make life easier for your colleagues.

“The person who clears the path ultimately controls its direction, just as the canvas shapes the painting.” – Ryan Holiday

According to Ryan, when you do this over time, you learn more as a result of facing a diverse amount of problems over time. Which helps your growth, build your reputation as a dependable part of the team and allow you have more impact in your career.

You become successful without chasing success.

It's like planting a seed and patiently waiting for it to grow into a tree.

You water it every day with service and eventually you can reap the fruits of the tree.

The Canvas Strategy is a great reminder of how true growth and success is a result of selfless service and a growth mindset.

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Stay Thriving,

Shoaib.