Ego Is the Enemy — Review & Summary (Ryan Holiday)
Overview
- Author: Ryan Holiday
- Published: 2016
- Genre: Mindset, Stoicism
- Length: ~256 pages
- Language: English
Short Summary
Shows how ego derails learning and performance. Advocates humility, purpose, and continual practice across phases: aspire, succeed, fail.
Key Takeaways
- Be a student—seek feedback and mentors.
- Do the work; talk less, execute more.
- Detach from applause and criticism.
- Define success by standard, not status.
Notable Quotes
“Impressing people is utterly different from being truly impressive.”
Who Should Read This Book?
Ambitious readers who want durable success without self‑sabotage or vanity traps.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stoic, timeless advice.
- Great historical examples.
- Short and pointed.
Cons:
- Less step‑by‑step tactics.
- Stoic tone may feel austere.
Final Verdict
A sharp antidote to ego. Use it to build humility, focus, and craftsmanship.