The philosopher Nagarjuna, writing in 2nd-century India, argued that clinging to a fixed sense of self — a permanent, unchanging 'I' — is the root of most suffering and poor decision-making. For leaders, this lands with surprising force: the executive who can't delegate often isn't protecting the team, they're protecting a self-concept ('I am the one who gets things done'). Nagarjuna's concept of *anātman* — the fluid, interdependent self — suggests that genuine productivity isn't about asserting yourself into every task, but recognizing that your best work often flows through others. The humblest leaders aren't diminished by this; they're freed by it.

Is there a task, role, or decision you're holding onto right now that serves your self-concept more than it serves your family, team, or actual goals?

Drawing from Madhyamaka Buddhist Philosophy — Nagarjuna (Mūlamadhyamakakārikā)