In "The Ego Is the Enemy," Ryan Holiday discusses the importance of self-management in addition to personal qualities. He emphasizes that merely possessing good traits is insufficient for success; one must also actively manage and cultivate these traits effectively. This idea is illustrated through various historical examples and philosophical insights.
La Rochefoucauld's quote highlights that greatness requires not just innate qualities but also the discipline and skill to harness them. This perspective encourages readers to reflect on how they can develop their character and control their ego to achieve their goals and live a meaningful life.