EGO, AND HOW IT AFFECTS YOUR LIFE

The right amount of ego is healthy for everyone, as human beings, but what happens when it becomes too big?

Ego is pretty much the sense of self. So if you have a 'big ego' it means that you have an over developed sense of self, an inflated feeling of pride in your superiority to others, while  a 'small' or 'low' ego would be the opposite, a depressed sense of self. 
On the other hand, a 'balanced' ego would signify a more appropriate medium point, where you are confident without being arrogant, humble without being self-effacing, your consciousness of your own identity This is quite difficult to achieve, but life is a continuous struggle to better one's self...

Signs of a big ego

1. You find yourself being defensive. Defending ideas ultimately turns into becoming defensive.
2. You continually compare yourself to others. In truth, being too competitive actually makes you less competitive.
3. You seek acceptance to justify your ego needs. You crave respect and recognition from others, which eventually interferes with your success.
4. You make a point of showcasing your brilliance and how right you are all the time.

 An unhealthy ego can have a harmful effect on relationships in the following ways;

Failure to Connect

• Those who suffer from an over-inflated ego may put up barriers that prevent them from truly connecting with people, thus making developing a deep relationship nearly impossible. Individuals with an unhealthy ego often do not present their true selves to others, making it nearly impossible for people to truly get to know them. If a person with an over-inflated ego dedicates all of his energy to maintaining this persona, he will likely have none left to form real connections.

Ego-Related Frustration

• Those trying to form relationships with individuals with over-inflated egos often find the task a frustrating one. If these ego-filled individuals are also boastful they may be difficult to stomach, because few people like to listen to people constantly talk about themselves and how wonderful they are. Because those with excessive egos can come off as arrogant, those who are close to them may ultimately be repelled.

Unwillingness to Change

• Many individuals with an unhealthy ego feel that they have no need to change any aspect of their personality or life. This unwillingness to change to accommodate the needs of others can prove problematic. Some change and accommodation is almost always necessary when crafting a mutually respectful relationship.

You have to try to achieve a balanced ego in order to maintai good relationships with others...

Sources: chipscholz.com and  ehow.com