Can ambition be dangerous?

Content/Trigger Warning: Please be advised, the below article might mention trauma-related topics that include types of abuse & violence that could potentially be triggering.

Ambition at First Glance

Dictionary.com defines ambition as: “an earnest desire for some type of achievement or distinction, as power, honor, fame, or wealth, and the willingness to strive for its attainment.”

In the U.S. especially, ambition is often seen as a positive character trait, something that is recognized and rewarded. 

The Complexity of Ambition

Ambition in and of itself is more complex than just a desire for achievement.  We need to look at both the reasons why someone is ambitious and the end goal to have a more comprehensive understanding.  Anything in extreme can be dangerous.  Even some vitamins can be harmful to the body when excess amounts are taken.  If a sense of ambition becomes one’s sole purpose in life and creates an imbalance, it can lead to exhaustion, loss of social life, and even something as severe as adrenal fatigue, which is the body’s reaction to extreme stress. 

We also need to look at the why behind the ambition.  Are you ambitious because you grew up in a family system where you were only given attention when you achieved something?  This may cause you to base your self-worth on what you produce.  Are you only ambitious when it comes to others, but neglect your own self-care?  If the answers are yes, your sense of ambition may lead to resentment, depression, codependency, or other signs that something is out of balance.

And finally, what is the end goal?  It is important to consider what you are working toward and whether the outcome of ambition is worth the potential cost.  If you are ambitious because you want to be wealthy, but end up having no friends or family around to enjoy the fruits of your labor because you had to give up all social time in order to achieve your wealth, you need to ask yourself if it’s worth it.  Only you can know whether your ambition is actually causing harm to you.  Occasional feelings of sadness or anxiety are common, but overall, if you are feeling like your ambition is causing you stress, it’s something to examine deeper.