Ambition is a mighty quality that motivates us to reach beyond what is considered possible. Whether we recognize it or not, many people are quietly ambitious. Some have internal ambition where they strive for personal success (e.g., entrepreneurship), and others are externally focused, where they strive for collective success (e.g., organizational growth).
While ambition has its ugly side, it is an essential ingredient for success. To better understand the nature of your desire, ask yourself:
1. Purpose. What is the motivation behind what you desire to achieve? E.g., Money, power, honor, helping others)
2. Vision. What do you aspire to achieve within a reasonable time frame?
3. Metrics. How will you measure how you are progressing towards your vision?
4. Priorities. What actions will you take in pursuit of your vision?
5. Promise. How will you hold yourself accountable?
6. Values. What guiding principles dictate how you accomplish your vision in good times and bad?
7. Behaviors. How will you act day-to-day and in the long-term to implement your vision and live up to your values?
Tag: inspiration
Life Lessons Continued
Part 2 of 2: Practical lessons that stand the test of time. What lessons can you add to the list?
16. The more you know, the less you fear.
17. Don’t let weeds grow around your dreams.
18. Think twice before deciding not to charge for your work. People often have less value for something given to them for free.
19. Remember that ignorance is expensive.
20. When declaring your rights, don’t forget your responsibilities.
21. Everyone you meet wears an invisible sign that reads “see me” and “hear me.”
22. Life’s changes rarely give warning.
23. Never let the odds keep you from pursuing what your heart desires.
24. Every age brings new opportunities.
25. Never underestimate the influence of the people you have allowed in your life.
26. Stand out from the crowd.
27. Don’t expect different results from the same behavior.
28. Question your prejudices.
29. See detours as an opportunity to experience new things.
30. Don’t live with the brakes engaged.
Adapted from Life’s Little Instruction Book