Jocko was hired to give leadership training to a multi-million-dollar company, but he found the CEO to be egotistical. He wondered why no one else seemed to see the CEO’s arrogance and began to question if the problem was with himself.
He realized that his own ego may have been causing the problem, as he was intimidated by the CEO’s physical abilities, intelligence, and success. Jocko realized that both his and the CEO’s egos were causing friction.
Jocko gave the CEO a positive assessment of his company’s leaders and morale, but also praised the CEO’s intelligence and leadership. The CEO’s tension dissipated and he humbly acknowledged Jocko’s experience and achievements in the military. Their egos disappeared quickly as they both shared a laugh.
