Stout does mean strong or determined but it indicates a positive trait and hence I doubt whether the author has used the word correctly in the title. I have opted to discuss the point raised by Vandana ma'am instead of rewording the title so as to bring in clarity.
The point that has been brought up for discussion has a negative connotation and is trying to explain the egoistic tendencies of people. It is a situation where people create a boundary around the list of works that they are supposed to do and are reluctant to do anything else despite the negative impacts the pending works may create. For example, the waste in your dustbin in the office is filled up and your cleaning staff is absent. A person who is bothered about cleanliness or the atmosphere of his office will, without any inhibition, clear the waste himself without waiting for the cleaning staff or asking one of his subordinates to do it for him. His civic sense does not allow him to be egoistic. The same goes with all sorts of pending jobs, at home or in your workplace or even your surroundings. There is nothing wrong in making the bed instead of thinking that it is not your job. So, basically, it is the attitude of clearing the backlogs or getting the work done that should be given priority over your ego. At the same time, one should be cautious enough to keep your position and should not let others take advantage of your nature.
'Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all'.
-Aristotle
