"Ego is an eager and willing conspirator when it comes to locking away the heart. I think of my ego as my inner hustler. It's that voice in my head that drives pretending, performing, pleasing and perfecting. The ego loves gold stars and craves acceptance and approval. It has no interest in wholeheartedness, just self-protection and admiration.

[..]

While the ego is powerful and demanding, it's just a tiny part of who we are. The heart is giant by comparison, and it free, wholehearted wisdom can drown out the smallness of needing to be liked." 

Joprojām Brené Brown. Dare to lead.