EQ and EGO cannot co-exist. They are mutually exclusive, and therefore, opposites of each other. When you make decisions based on what is best for you and your needs alone it is impossible to demonstrate empathy, self-control or to remain flexible. Can you have your own needs met at the same time as someone else’s? Yes, but that defines a case of collaboration, not ego.

When we act out of ego, we are protecting our own status. A win-lose mindset is definitely ego over EQ, but even a win attitude (‘every man for himself’ mentality) sets you up for failure. It is not selfishness that motivates our ego, but rather self- involvement. Self-involvement is transparent. We think we are hiding it from others but we don’t.

When someone else senses your ego driven behavior, they are less likely to respond positively to you, making you less influential and less effective. When you demonstrate EQ, others can see that you are looking out for them too and will respect and be open to new ideas more often.