In leadership, ego can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it builds confidence—giving us a sense of capability that inspires others. But ego can also trap us in a rigid self-image, reinforcing ideas of who we think we are and who we “should” be. Interestingly, in Tibetan, there’s no word directly for “ego.” Instead, they use bdag tzin, which means “self-grasping”. This concept captures how we sometimes over-identify with fixed ideas of ourselves, limiting our ability to grow, adapt, and especially, to think creatively.
The Science of Ego and Creativity
Research reveals that ego often impedes creativity by constricting cognitive flexibility—the ability to move beyond fixed patterns and see things in new ways. Psychologist Ellen Langer explores this idea in her book Mindfulness, where she explains how we tend to approach the world with preconceptions that cloud our view. By disrupting these habits, we open ourselves to new ideas and perspectives.
Neuroscience supports this as well: the brain’s Default Mode Network (DMN), a part of the brain linked to self-referential, ego-driven thoughts, often reinforces habitual thinking. Studies by Judson Brewer, author of The Craving Mind, show that reducing DMN activity—through practices like mindfulness—helps us break out of this self-focused mode, allowing us to connect with creativity and curiosity in a fresh way.
Reconnecting with the Inner Child
To release ourselves from these mental traps, we need to reconnect with a mindset of curiosity and wonder—a state of mind that children inhabit naturally. This is often referred to as a “beginner’s mind,” which psychologist Carol Dweck explores in Mindset. In it, she describes a “growth mindset” that focuses on exploring challenges with curiosity, seeing them as learning opportunities. By tapping into this way of thinking, we allow ourselves to think beyond the known, to make fresh connections, and to reimagine solutions.
I saw this come to life just recently in the Visionary Mindset workshop I recently delivered at Kinesthesia, . We worked through a series of exercises that helped participants reconnect with their own creative abilities—something that feels surprising once you start doing it again as an adult.
We began with a visual meditation to ease into reflection, and then dove into a hands-on group session with all kinds of creative materials—paints, collage tools, markers, Lego, even Play-Doh. Each person got to build an imaginary place, anchored in reality but unrestricted by any specific outcome. It was powerful to see: everyone started to realize they could indeed be creative, that they could bring this kind of vision and playfulness into thinking about their own future. By the end, they had connected with an inner creativity that made their goals feel both grounded and full of possibility.
So, how do we shake off some of that ego and reconnect with our inner child’s openness? Here are a few practices that work well—and a quick tip: when you start, it can feel a little awkward. That’s completely fine. Just go with it, and remember, no one’s judging!
1. Create without purpose
For me, drawing things that come to mind, without any planning or pressure to make it “realistic,” is a freeing practice. When I create for the joy of creating, it’s not about producing something impressive; it’s about letting go and enjoying the process. Research shows that non-goal-directed creativity actually enhances divergent thinking, a crucial element of innovation. Give it a try. Draw, paint, or write without any specific outcome in mind—it’s a great way to keep those creative muscles active.
2. Rediscover wonder in nature
Connect with nature and with new eyes! Watching birds and squirrels at the feeder I recently installed in my garden is a simple daily ritual, but it never fails to fill me with a sense of wonder. There’s something about seeing creatures move, eat, and go about their routines that pulls me into the moment. Nature has a way of grounding us, of slowing down the brain’s DMN activity, so we can approach life with fresh, open eyes. These small, joyful moments in nature encourage a kind of mindfulness that refreshes creativity.
3. Ask “Why” Like a Beginner
A powerful way to break out of our assumptions is to revisit them with genuine curiosity. Ellen Langer’s work in Mindfulness shows that by approaching familiar tasks with a sense of questioning, we can unlock new possibilities. I like to do this by repeatedly asking “why.” For example, why do I approach a particular task in a certain way? Or why have I always followed the same morning routine? By staying open to new answers, we make room for creative shifts and insights we might otherwise overlook.
4. Engage in playful activities
Connecting with the inner child sometimes means just letting go of any “grown-up” reservations and allowing yourself to play. Whether it’s building with Legos, molding clay, or doodling, these activities engage parts of the brain associated with novelty and pleasure. It might feel a bit silly at first, but engaging in free play is a way to re-energize our thinking. Think of it as a break from the “shoulds” and “musts” that typically occupy us, and instead, just let yourself explore.
5. Practice beginner’s mind
Approaching familiar tasks as if you’re seeing them for the first time can be transformative. I try to remind myself of this, especially with projects or routines I’ve done many times. By intentionally bringing curiosity and openness, I’m able to let go of expectations and find new approaches. This “beginner’s mind” allows us to stay receptive to different perspectives, ideas, and even challenges.
Embracing the Ego’s Paradox
Ultimately, reconnecting with our inner child helps us loosen ego’s hold, encouraging a leadership style full of curiosity, openness, and flexibility. It’s not about letting go of ego altogether; it’s about finding a balance—using ego to build confidence but also letting go just enough to remain creative and open to new experiences. Embracing this paradox makes us better leaders, grounding us while leaving space for growth, innovation, and curiosity.