In "The Ego Is the Enemy," Ryan Holiday explores how the ego thrives on the concept of fairness. It encourages individuals to believe they are deserving of more or that circumstances should align with their expectations. This belief can lead to discontent, as ego distorts reality and fosters feelings of resentment and entitlement instead of accepting life's inherent challenges.

Holiday emphasizes the importance of understanding this tendency of the ego. By recognizing how it can manipulate perceptions, individuals may learn to embrace humility and resilience, focusing on personal growth rather than getting caught up in the idea of fairness, ultimately leading to a more content life.