Ambition radiates energy. It signals drive, purpose, and the determination to shape a better future. For leaders who aspire to drive change, ambition is a powerful trait to demonstrate.
Getting in touch with one’s ambition
Sameer never aspired for the C-suite, yet he rose to become CEO. Known for his capability, fairness, and authenticity, he earned the trust of stakeholders. His organization needed him to drive the much-needed change. His chairman was concerned about one aspect: Sameer was seen as less ambitious.
Based on the chairman’s advice, Sameer worked with a coach. His resistance was clear: “I already have everything. Why aspire for more?”
The coach asked, “What regret might you carry forward in life?”
Sameer got in touch with his own ambivalence around ambition. His coach helped him reframe ambition as being in pursuit of a worthy and meaningful goal.
“Something which is challenging for me personally… outside my comfort zone.” Sameer shared.
For Sameer it meant rediscovering his entrepreneurial side that he had long suppressed.
He realized the current organization needed him to bring this side much more than before.
Sameer identified a niche idea he had piloted but never scaled. The market was ready, yet daily routines had buried his focus. Now, he set a bold target: launch a new unit to serve this distinct segment.
He shared his vision across levels, connecting personally with key stakeholders.
Sameer felt alive again
He gained early supporters for his vision
The chairman welcomed the change and the renewed energy
Sameer revived the part of him which he let go to perform his varied roles. He redefined ambition as being in pursuit of something larger than himself.
Leaders who demonstrate ambition radiate energy, purpose, and direction. They inspire teams to embrace challenges and move forward.
For your reflection
- What would rekindle ambition in you?
- What principles guide your ambition today?
- How would your ambitious self enable you to drive for change?
“Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good or very bad acts. All depends on the principles which direct them.” – Napoleon Bonaparte