It’s good, sometimes essential, for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. But I’m not going to lie — my ambition meter runs low. I don’t aspire to top the corporate ladder, hold high-powered titles, own a luxury car, or sport a high-end watch on my wrist.
I’ve no qualms with ambitious people looking to rise to a particular position of power or economic status.
I am not wired that way. My drive is simple: to do good in the world and make a positive impact.
Rethinking What Success Means
I know what you might think: “How can you live without a five-year plan or a burning desire to climb the corporate ladder?”
Trust me, I get it. The world shouts that ambition is crucial to success. But what if we took a step back and reconsidered what success means?
I’ve seen it. The driven colleague chasing promotions like they’re the only thing that matters. The top executive whose obsession with power overshadowed everything else. Their ambition often blinded them to the reality that happiness and fulfilment come from more than a prestigious title.
It’s easy to admire those who fervently pursue their dreams. But ambition shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all game.
Take a former colleague of mine, for example. She valued ambition above all else, awarding opportunities only to those who displayed it outwardly. Her rationale? “They have the hunger for the job.”
But what about those who might be quieter yet equally passionate? Isn’t their merit worthy, too?
Ambition is a fine thing when it serves a collective purpose. But when it’s all about personal gain, it can lead to a one-track mindset that leaves no room for the bigger picture.
I once worked with a team member who was ambitious to a fault. Every project was a stepping stone to his next big move. He didn’t just aim high; he left others in his wake.
I know many in the top or senior management who fuss over ambitious team members. I’ve worked with enough colleagues who do great work but have no personal ambition for titles or positions. Contrary to what some may think, there’s nothing wrong with that.
The Joy of a Different Path
What’s wrong with wanting to enjoy the journey rather than rushing to the destination?
In a world that glamorises hustle culture, we forget that fulfilment doesn’t have to come from relentless ambition. Contentment is often mistaken for complacency, but there’s a clear difference between settling for less and finding satisfaction in doing meaningful work.
If you’re someone who doesn’t feel the urge to constantly climb the ladder, I see you. It’s okay not to want a high-flying career if you’re doing work that you love and living a life that brings you joy. At the end of the day, it’s about finding your balance — doing work you care about and being content in your lane.
So, let’s stop forcing ourselves to fit into the mould of ambition society pushes on us. Instead, focus on what brings you happiness and fulfilment, even if it doesn’t have a fancy title. Because the best ambition of all is the one that leads to a life you’re genuinely excited to live.
Want to try it?
About Me
I am a thinker at all times. I see, I think. I hear, I think. I read, I think. Every weekend I write. I would love to know what you think.