What Is Ladder Amnesia?
Ladder amnesia is that little selective memory glitch where you conveniently forget the grind it took to get where you are. You’re at the top now, living your best life, but what about the steps—those scrappy, uncomfortable, figure-it-out-as-you-go steps—that got you there? Have you forgotten the people, the lessons, and the blood, sweat, and existential tears you poured into the climb?
What Causes Ladder Amnesia?
Maybe it’s the corner office, the accolades, or just plain old ego creeping in, but some leaders lose sight of the grit and grind that shaped them. And when you forget the climb, you risk alienating the people still on it.
Let’s be real—have you become the kind of leader you once rolled your eyes at? The one who’s “too busy” or “too important” to connect? If the answer is a wince-inducing yes, then it’s time for a gut check.
Ego vs. Inflated Ego
An ego, when kept in check, is a good thing. It’s what gives you confidence to make bold moves. But an inflated ego? That’s when you start believing your own PR—thinking you’re untouchable, invincible, or, God forbid, above the rules.
If your head’s getting a little too big for your office door, let’s pause for a second:
Have you become the boss you once dreaded working for?
Yeah, that’s a tough pill to swallow, but here’s the kicker—ego blinds you. It isolates you, makes you unapproachable, and creates a team that’s too scared to call you out when you’re dead wrong. The top may have a great view, but it’s a lonely place if you let pride build walls around you.
Feedback Blackout: The Silent Killer of Leaders
When was the last time someone told you, “Hey, that idea kinda sucks,” or challenged you in a way that made you rethink your whole approach? If you’re surrounded by people nodding along like bobbleheads, you’re living in an echo chamber.
Do you actually think you’ve got it all figured out?
Spoiler alert: You don’t. None of us do. And if you’re not actively seeking honest feedback, you’re not just stagnant—you’re slipping. Leadership thrives on humility and a willingness to hear what you don’t want to hear.
So, what’s it going to be? Stay stuck in your bubble, or pop it before someone else does?
Check Your Clock: Time to Dismount That High Horse
Here’s the brutal truth: Leadership isn’t for people who can’t handle reflection. It’s not about looking good—it’s about being good. And sometimes, being good means taking a hard look in the mirror and admitting you’ve messed up.
Are you the kind of leader who doubles down on bad habits when faced with criticism? Or do you take the hit, learn the lesson, and come out better for it?
Growth isn’t for the faint-hearted, and neither is leadership. The real work starts when you get off your pedestal and start lifting others up. Otherwise, the walls you build to protect yourself will be the same ones that trap you.
Ladder amnesia isn’t just forgetting where you came from—it’s forgetting who you are. Time to tear down the walls and remember the climb.
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