Saturday 18 July 2015

Ambition: Why It's A Good Thing

As part of my Over To You theme, I was asked to talk a little about ambition by @moderatemum. 
Why Ambition Is A Good ThingAmbition is a weird one.
For a lot of people it is seen as a negative trait, conjuring up images of ruthlessness, and cut throat business people in amazing designer suits taking people down. Just me then? Ok, that's what I used to picture when the word ambition was thrown into conversation.
Over the years, my views have changed. I think ambition is a positive thing. It's how we go about achieving it that defines whether or not it's a bad thing.
I often say you should follow your ambitions at what ever cost. When I say this, I don't mean ploughing down anyone who gets in your way. I mean persevere, put the work in, don't take rejections to heart and never give up.
Perhaps this is one of the reasons why I'm not the CEO of some mega company - and I'm ok with that.
My ambition has always been to write and publish a novel.
Does that mean I should claw my way to this goal by tearing down other writers? Of course not. I think it's important that we support and help each other, and celebrate each other's successes, even if it does sting a little.
It means I should write a story I love and keep persevering through all the rejections.
I think ambition is important as it gives us purpose and something to aim for. I don't think there's anything wrong with striving to be the best in your chosen field, as long as you do it with integrity and on you own merit, rather than sabotaging anyone else.

What does the word ambition mean to you?

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4 comments:

  1. Like so many other words today, ambition has been tainted by misuse and people throwing away their morals to achieve it. Strictly speaking ambition is a strong desire to do something through determination and hard work. In its original meaning, there is nothing wrong or sinister.
    l Life & Faith in Caneyhead

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    1. In it's original meaning, it sounds like something we should all be aiming for. I agree that over the years the meaning has definitely been messed up by people who use the term ambition to justify their unscrupulous behaviour!

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  2. What a fabulous ambition to have! I wrote a book and I want to get it published but it may take some time finding the right people to do it! I hope to achieve this goal as it could help set up my blog and more and help go towards my adrenal pump!

    Angela x

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    1. It does take time, but it's worth pushing on. Remember Harry Potter was rejected by several publishers! Let me know how it goes - Good Luck! :)

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