"Anytime there is a struggle between doing what is actually right and doing what seems right, then your ego is interfering with your decision"

Darren L. Johnson's quote checks out the internal conflict between our sense of ethics and the misleading guidance of our ego. The quote sets the phase for understanding decision-making as not merely a rational procedure, but also an emotional and psychological one. It poses a dichotomy: doing what is "actually ideal" versus doing what "appears right."

The phrase "in fact best" recommends a goal, maybe universal requirement of rightness, an action aligned with ethical concepts or ethical realities. This might include stability, sincerity, empathy, or fairness-- qualities typically proclaimed as fairly good. On the other hand, "appears right" suggests a more subjective and possibly misdirected perception formed by individual predispositions, desires, or social pressures. This is where the ego comes into play.

Ego, in psychological terms, describes the part of the self that constructs and maintains our self-image. It is concerned with how we are viewed by others and can frequently cloud our judgment. When we act based on what appears right, it might be since we are attempting to protect our self-image, prevent dispute, or stick to social norms, even if those actions are contrary to our much deeper values. For instance, somebody may select to tell a white lie because it seems like the simpler, more socially acceptable course of action rather than challenging an uneasy reality, which would be the right thing to do.

The conflict in between the 2 options highlights the ego's tendency to focus on self-interest and superficial looks over authentic ethical considerations. Johnson suggests that true integrity involves acknowledging and conquering this ego-driven disturbance, permitting our choices to be assisted by our authentic worths rather than by what simply appears advantageous or feels comfortable. The quote works as a call for self-questioning, prompting individuals to analyze the motivations behind their decisions and pursue authenticity and ethical consistency.