Self Esteem, Friend or Foe

Watching Marcus on The Apprentice last night was painful. For weeks he has been the super square peg in the round hole, but circumstances kept him in play. Just like lots of people in their jobs. And, frankly, I thought he was going to get through another week. There was a lot of blame to go around.
But Marcus managed to communicate so poorly, and contribute so little, that he got fired.
What is so striking about Marcus is that he simply did not have a clue! He appeared so sure of his own position and contribution that the firing was simply, in his mind, a mistake. And yet, to everyone else, the fact that he was surprised came as a surprise!
My opinion is that Marcus has a crippingly high level of self esteem - he fully and completely believes in himself and the rightness of his ways. That's a good thing - nothing better than a healthy dose of self esteem. The operative word is healthy. To know in your own mind that you are worthy and able is a great help - but not essential. Lots of people have overcome low self esteem and become very successful.
Marcus, on the other hand, seems to have such a high opinion of his own value that he doesn't see the world in real terms - only in terms that fit him. These kinds of people can be maddening - I'll bet everyone knows at least one or two people like Marcus. They feel no one else gets it, when they're the ones who don't. Self Esteem becomes a foe when the level is so high that "nothing gets through." Marcus, to me, is a perfect example of a very bright, creative person who simply cannot work with a group. Put Marcus on a project where his only contact with others is to get help on his terms, and he may be effective. Unfortunately, I can't think of too many of those opportunities in life.
Good luck Marcus - I hope you get to know yourself as the first step to being successful. It ain't going to be easy!