A strong identification with one’s ego can often be a source of obstacles on the personal path to enlightenment. Even though there is a negative outlook on ego in the Buddhist philosophy and teachings, ego isn’t entirely bad. Usually the problem is the nature of the relationship we form with it. If we aren’t “one with ego,” meaning we are not firmly identified and entangled with it, then we can quickly let it go and reach the state of nirvana.
To practice letting go of the ego, we challenge you to talk to one person of your choice with the intention to truly, actively listen and ask questions about their life and interests. You should aim to leave the conversation with the other person feeling their worth, feeling like he or she is an exciting person and that his or her feelings have value. Your focus should not be on you making an impression on him/her, it should be on them.