|
Some people say they want to be a doctor. And then some people say they REALLY WANT to be a doctor. (They might never say aloud for fear of shame, but they may say it to their internal psyche.)
This idea of want and WANT applies to all facets of expertise - research, business, innovation, et cetera. I know a person who sets out four hours a day to read a book every two days. While I want to improve myself, I don't want it as badly as he does.
Time Magazine: Ambition: Why Some People Are Most Likely to Succeed http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1126746,00.html#ixzz1rLFsW0TG
"If humans are an ambitious species, it's clear we're not the only one. Many animals are known to signal their ambitious tendencies almost from birth. Even before wolf pups are weaned, they begin sorting themselves out into alphas and all the others. The alphas are quicker, more curious, greedier for space, milk, Mom — and they stay that way for life. Alpha wolves wander widely, breed annually and may live to a geriatric 10 or 11 years old. Lower-ranking wolves enjoy none of these benefits — staying close to home, breeding rarely and usually dying before they're 4."
Personally, I live in the pacific north west (Seattle) and while I consider myself ambitious, I hesitate to ever tell anyone because it seems you shouldn't attract attention to yourself.
Here's a quote I found interesting: "...there is something, also, about ambition that is not welcome on the west coast; admitting to ambition is like saying you are a Republican, or in favor of sweatshops—it is unseemly and a little grotesque, that kind of desire. We spent a lot of our life pretending we were not ambitious, and then we came out here, and this city took away all pretense of everything other than the stuff we are made of; and, to be frank, we are a little on the ruthless side, and so are all the people we love the most. Ambition is a thing that you have to surround yourself with, or else stamp out in yourself altogether, because there is no good in being ruthless in a city of gentle people. New York is many things, a lot of them nearly unbearable, but gentle is certainly not one of them."
Here's 2 polls for you guys:
Poll: Your Ambition levelI'd really like to hit my goal, but I probably won't. (119) 31% I'd really like to hit my goal and I work pretty hard at it. (100) 26% I will kill my body for it. Accomplishment in goal is the fulfillment of my soul. (66) 17% I think about my goal > 5 times a day. (54) 14% I think about my goal < 5 times a day. (45) 12% 384 total votes Your vote: Your Ambition level (Vote): I will kill my body for it. Accomplishment in goal is the fulfillment of my soul. (Vote): I think about my goal > 5 times a day. (Vote): I think about my goal < 5 times a day. (Vote): I'd really like to hit my goal and I work pretty hard at it. (Vote): I'd really like to hit my goal, but I probably won't.
Poll: If I have an ambition, my ambition is:A happy life/family/successful children (meaning, as long as i am happy, that is my acomplishment) (216) 44% Science / Humanity / Psychology Research (68) 14% 100k+ Job (57) 12% Other (51) 10% Creative Art (38) 8% Technology Innovation (21) 4% Medicine (14) 3% 60k+ Job (14) 3% Entrepreneur (14) 3% 493 total votes Your vote: If I have an ambition, my ambition is: (Vote): Science / Humanity / Psychology Research (Vote): Technology Innovation (Vote): Creative Art (Vote): Medicine (Vote): 100k+ Job (Vote): 60k+ Job (Vote): A happy life/family/successful children (meaning, as long as i am happy, that is my acomplishment) (Vote): Entrepreneur (Vote): Other
Create art = Creative Pursuit - literature, theatre, photography, etc
On Mutual goals: Being an scientist and having a happy family are not mutually exclusive (although some may argue so). This poll is asking for your highest priority.
|
|
Personally, and I'm probably biased here, but ambition is only significant when you have hurdles to overcome or achieving the goals was rather challenging.
When your life is going swell and you have lots of support and fun and stuff, it's really easy to have positive attitudes, including those promoting being ambitious. Or when the goals are small, it's not so big an accomplishment. When life gives you gold, well, it's not hard to keep up with that sort of thing.
For some folks, it's not so rosy. When life gives you lead, you better man the fuck up, turn it into bullets, and shoot it back at life and show it who's boss. I've had some rough times, tough times, and usually I've been my own determination and support. I'd say I'm ambitious to at least a fair degree. I've been achieving pretty well, and just having secured an internship with Intel isn't so shabby either. It doesn't matter, determination trumps everything. Focusing on ambitions, and not on the things getting you down psychologically/emotionally, will get you places.
|
Might want to fix "faucets" to "facets", makes quite a bit of difference. :p
|
Where is the, I have no goal option.
|
I'm ambitious, sometimes it gives me more troubles than benefits.
|
I have no ambition and it kills me. Its like slowly dying.
But seriously I wish I had a little more ambition
|
The older I grow, the less ambition I have. I wonder if this is a linear relationship. Looks like it when looking at old people
100k+ job ! Money money !! but its really saddening to think of those who get the other end of the stick. 99%/1%
I think our deepest ambition as humans is the worlds ambition to be connected.
|
On April 07 2012 18:19 Alborz wrote:The older I grow, the less ambition I have. I wonder if this is a linear relationship. Looks like it when looking at old people 100k+ job ! Money money !! but its really saddening to think of those who get the other end of the stick. 99%/1% I think our deepest ambition as humans is the worlds ambition to be connected.
how old r u
|
I see a lot of wisdom in Alborz post.
|
I have ambition to a fault. I have a competitive nature so I have to make sure that I don't start trying to be good at random shit. I find it difficult to casually participate in anything without instantly wanting to be the best (or being really embarrassed that I suck).
But for the things I really care about, I'm glad I have a bit of ambition. It has done good by me.
|
you should never keep people with the ambitious trait as your vassals because this will decrease your relationship points with them and make them rebel against you. Though if your heir has the ambitious trait it's great because of the bonus stats he recieves.
|
As soon as I can muster up enough of my inner ambition to overcome my overpowering laziness, I'll be sorted.
|
I'm not very ambitious, but my hamster is. Seriously, that guy just gnawed and chewed his way through two layers of cardboard in 15 minutes. I wish I was more like a hamster.
|
i accomplished what i wanted when i was younger. so, now i dont really have any ambition anymore. just want to maintain the status quo.
|
On April 07 2012 18:51 marttorn wrote: I'm not very ambitious, but my hamster is. Seriously, that guy just gnawed and chewed his way through two layers of cardboard in 15 minutes. I wish I was more like a hamster.
Haha I literary got some food stuck in my throat after reading this. However quite the impressive hamster, feeling a bit of jealousy raising in my body.
|
On April 07 2012 18:51 marttorn wrote: I'm not very ambitious, but my hamster is. Seriously, that guy just gnawed and chewed his way through two layers of cardboard in 15 minutes. I wish I was more like a hamster.
My hamster chewed through the plastic part of the bottom of his cage. Made a damn hole that he could fit through.
Also I have things I want to do, but I'm quick to be demotivated.
|
If I didn't love what I was doing or really want to do it and make a life around it, then I wouldn't be doing it. I don't like people approaching success with things such as "talent" or "luck". These supposedly inherited traits. I only see hard work and drive has the primary factors.
|
I actually am going to be a doctor, starting from next September.
I don't know if it's ambition or not, I never really wanted to be anything else and wouldn't have the ambition to do anything else anyway at this point. I think it's more about realizing what you want to do and enjoying that subject in general than "omg I wanna be successful in life"; what people consider success may or may not overlap with your interests and talent, but that's coincidence imo.
|
I'm a junior doctor, so by normal standards I'm very ambitious as I put myself through the study etc. required to enter and complete the course. However, compared to my contemporaries I'd say I'm relatively unambitious. This is because I feel like I'm staring defeat in the face when considering these are the people I will compete against for future specialty training positions.
|
I had a specific goal when I was young that I was very ambitious about. Alas, as time went by I realized more and more that it might never see the light of reality. I do think about it from time to time but since then I shifted to some things that are more practical. Some ambitions, as others have stated, are easily more realized for some due to the opportunities life has given them. That's not to say you shouldn't fight your hardest to achieve it, only problem is the amount of crap you'd have to deal with along the way and the patience of having to keep that ambition alive long enough for it to be fulfilled. Another issue is trying to achieve something whilst trying to hold yourself to some moral standard.
|
I want to be an astrophysicist. I am very ambitious and will do anything to achieve that. I even took physics and math high level for IB Diploma and it isn't going as awesome as I want it to :p and so many lab reports but eh, I am willing to put up with it
|
I want a national championship. And I think about it like 10 times a day. Thankfully I'm aware that I can only control what I do in this regard, and I enjoy working out so it's not that bad!
|
achieve a milestone in dance, starcraft 2 masters/GM, and earn over 100k a year :D
|
insert pokemon intro song
|
Is it possible for one to be ambitious yet to have unclear ambitions?
|
On April 07 2012 20:06 speknek wrote: insert pokemon intro song
Win.
I have health issues atm (and I'm still in higher education) so I don't really have any clear ambitions at all. I'm academically smart, and I know I want a career somewhere in design but I would say my ambitions at the minute are simply to get back onto the path I could have potentially had if I weren't ill, i.e, catch up in university, get some work experience and so on, and just see what happens from there.
So I put 'to be happy' in the poll.
e: When I was in my early teens I really wanted to be a snooker (billiards to Americans?) professional, but that kinda died out. Still watch it when the tournaments come on the BBC though
|
I think about my goals all the time. Then I ignore them and ladder some more.
|
am·bi·tious/amˈbiSHəs/ Adjective: 1) Having or showing a strong desire and determination to succeed. 2) (of a plan or piece of work) Intended to satisfy high aspirations and therefore difficult to achieve.
I have big dreams, so the dreams are ambitious in the second sense. I'm not working hard to achieve them, so I am not ambitious in the first sense.
What if ones goal is the be happy without having to work hard. Can you work hard to achieve that goal?
|
What's this about doctors being ambitious? Studying medicine is all about incorporating reading and studying a bit everyday. Why do most people think medschool students spend their every waking minute in front of a book?
|
On April 07 2012 17:49 thrawn2112 wrote: i like getting stoned
The fuel for ambition.
|
I doubt any Andrew Ryan's would spent their time on a Starcraft 2 forum.
Having said that, I think I am reasonably ambitious and driven. Perhaps slightly above average, but nothing extreme.
|
I don't have any goals right now. If I did I would be coming at them like a freight train.
I am very ambitious. I just don't know what for yet.
|
I'd call myself moderately ambitious, not guns out I'm going to become the next hitler ambitious but still. I've worked very hard to get my dream job to work with games and currently occupy a concept art/3d job at a game studio making games I love. I also recently during my hard studies learned the guitar and enjoy that daily too. But I feel I'm not at the max ambition level considering it is all fairly general motivations but I feel once I find a more clear idea to be excited about I might flip the switch.
|
I wonder if I can measure my ambition simply by the fact that many other people are lazier than me or have the "goal bar" set much lower, despite the fact that I often don't feel particularly ambitious, or sometimes I procrastinate a lot
|
On April 07 2012 19:34 Ayush_SCtoss wrote: I want to be an astrophysicist. I am very ambitious and will do anything to achieve that. I even took physics and math high level for IB Diploma and it isn't going as awesome as I want it to :p and so many lab reports but eh, I am willing to put up with it IB ergo I BS . I'm IB too, I do PhysicsSL and MathSL. I have friends in Physics HL, Math HL, and Chem HL all at the same time and I have no idea how they do it lol. I'm more humanities driven though I could probably do those classes if I had enough of a math background, which i don't. I myself am fairly ambitious, trying to get into stanford, attempt to have a 4.5 GPA, and then get into Law school and get my J.D. then my PH.D or possibly go into cognitive neuroscience as a doctor, I'm open, but I'm very ambitious and goal driven about my life, for me making >100K and having a great family are my main goals, but happiness is the one I want to attain, I want to make a name for myself so that people can say that I was great. However its a long road and I probably will not get to all that stuff, but hey it will be a fun ride, and really thats all life is about, fun .
|
I'm ambitious about learning. That's about it. I don't have a set goal for my life...and, frankly, that's quite fine by me.
|
On April 07 2012 23:28 docvoc wrote:Show nested quote +On April 07 2012 19:34 Ayush_SCtoss wrote: I want to be an astrophysicist. I am very ambitious and will do anything to achieve that. I even took physics and math high level for IB Diploma and it isn't going as awesome as I want it to :p and so many lab reports but eh, I am willing to put up with it IB ergo I BS . I'm IB too, I do PhysicsSL and MathSL. I have friends in Physics HL, Math HL, and Chem HL all at the same time and I have no idea how they do it lol. I'm more humanities driven though I could probably do those classes if I had enough of a math background, which i don't. I myself am fairly ambitious, trying to get into stanford, attempt to have a 4.5 GPA, and then get into Law school and get my J.D. then my PH.D or possibly go into cognitive neuroscience as a doctor, I'm open, but I'm very ambitious and goal driven about my life, for me making >100K and having a great family are my main goals, but happiness is the one I want to attain, I want to make a name for myself so that people can say that I was great. However its a long road and I probably will not get to all that stuff, but hey it will be a fun ride, and really thats all life is about, fun .
Haha, I c wut u did thar
I have also taken Bio SL just in case I can't achieve what I want. What I am going to do with it...I have no idea but will definitely be part of the field of science.
Also, for any grownup parent that have kids, bringing them up in the best possible environment will definitely be one of the goals so having a good job, >100K etc goes without saying :D
|
I'ma become an insanely rich corporate lawyer with no other concern in life than making money. I'll set aside any moral principle, any personal principle I may ever had. The top priority in life is money, you all know it, even more in those troubled times. Do not wait for the world to change so our values change, you'll wait forever. I'm extremely active in the political world as well, there's a lot of potential out there to make connections. All you need is to fake a permanent smile, be dynamic dynamic dynamic and to approve anything your hierarchy ever tells you. They'll not every even realize that you're bluffing, everyone does that. Moreover most of politicians are on anti depressant, which makes them mad. I call this the ''short and fat syndrome''. All those Short and Fat people thriving for attention, when you give them what they want they'll suck your boots. Those who lack ambition are shallow and weak. Life is a fight, solidarity is a myth, you've been warned.
|
My only goal is to live near the beach, small house, not a big city just a small town, a sound system and my favourite albums, now the way to get that i'm not sure, I know I'll have to get a boring job somewhere in the big city which makes me very sad.
|
On April 08 2012 02:09 fofa2000 wrote: I'ma become an insanely rich corporate lawyer with no other concern in life than making money. I'll set aside any moral principal, any personal principle I may ever had. The top priority in life is money, you all know it, even more in those troubled times. Do not wait for the world to change so our values change, you'll wait forever. I'm extremely active in the political world as well, there's a lot of potential out there to make connections. All you need is to fake a permanent smile, be dynamic dynamic dynamic and to approve anything your hierarchy ever tells you. They'll not every even realize that you're bluffing, everyone does that. Moreover most of politicians are on anti depressant, which makes them mad. I call this the ''short and fat syndrome''. All those Short and Fat people thriving for attention, when you give them what they want they'll suck your boots. Those who lack ambition are shallow and weak. Life is a fight, solidarity is a myth, you've been warned.
Adolf, is that you?
Cheer up man life is beautiful and full of love. Take your old man out for a beer or something.
|
I'd consider myself to be one of the most ambitious people among my friends and classmates. Coming out of highschool, I wasn't where I thought I would have been grade wise to actually have a compete with others in obtaining a doctorate in the social sciences due to my PCS (post-concussive syndrome) necessitating significant rehabilitation because of memory impairment and other issues. Prior to that, I was one of the top students in my class but everything seemed to go to hell. After years of hardwork and battling through it, I'm now 18 months away from getting my doctorate. On top of that, I'm the youngest student in our doctorate class. I made sure to do as much as I could while still enjoying life in order to get here. And it's so close now.
|
On April 08 2012 02:21 Kickboxer wrote:Show nested quote +On April 08 2012 02:09 fofa2000 wrote: I'ma become an insanely rich corporate lawyer with no other concern in life than making money. I'll set aside any moral principal, any personal principle I may ever had. The top priority in life is money, you all know it, even more in those troubled times. Do not wait for the world to change so our values change, you'll wait forever. I'm extremely active in the political world as well, there's a lot of potential out there to make connections. All you need is to fake a permanent smile, be dynamic dynamic dynamic and to approve anything your hierarchy ever tells you. They'll not every even realize that you're bluffing, everyone does that. Moreover most of politicians are on anti depressant, which makes them mad. I call this the ''short and fat syndrome''. All those Short and Fat people thriving for attention, when you give them what they want they'll suck your boots. Those who lack ambition are shallow and weak. Life is a fight, solidarity is a myth, you've been warned. Adolf, is that you? Cheer up man life is beautiful and full of love. Take your old man out for a beer or something.
Adolf? If only Adolf was more materialistic and less crazy.
Worse thing that guy will do is evade some taxes and hate the peasants lulz.
Myself? I'm feeling like awefully romantic and nomadic recently... I don't crave power or fame but a normal life just doesn't fit well on me. These shitty song lyrics I used to listen to when I was a teen come to mind.
Sweet dreams are made of these Who am I to disagree? Travel the world and the seven seas
Going to Tibet this June...
|
Yep Half, you put your fingers exactly on that, I'll do everything I can to reestablish the royalty. And i don't hate peasants they are a good source of income and manpower for the army. But don't think I'm crazy I know those kind of things take a while.
|
My ambition is to absorb knowledge and share knowledge with people who don't already have it, regardless of how long I live. Pretty good ambition IMO
|
I would like to be ruler of the world. No joke.
I need a financial start, so that's why I'm in stocks and the foriegn exchange market. Once I get rich enough, I can go to Africa or S. America and start up my own nation. Make it the best fucking nation on the planet and start wars with my neighbors. Take their land, make the people's lives better, and keep up the process. Once people realize I'm an awesome dictator, I'll shoot for Mars.
|
On April 07 2012 17:49 thrawn2112 wrote: i like getting stoned my 2nd day of absence from weed, i have been smoking it everyday nonstop for 7 years, and im quitting in my journey to become a better player at starcraft 2, its really hard thinking about it nonstop but i won't let it phase me, because its my goal and i would give up sacrifices to achieve... wish me luck guys!
|
For the second poll I'd like to request an "all of the above" option.
|
On April 08 2012 06:49 FlyingToilet wrote:my 2nd day of absence from weed, i have been smoking it everyday nonstop for 7 years, and im quitting in my journey to become a better player at starcraft 2, its really hard thinking about it nonstop but i won't let it phase me, because its my goal and i would give up sacrifices to achieve... wish me luck guys!
glhf!
|
On April 08 2012 02:09 fofa2000 wrote: I'ma become an insanely rich corporate lawyer with no other concern in life than making money. I'll set aside any moral principle, any personal principle I may ever had. The top priority in life is money, you all know it, even more in those troubled times. Do not wait for the world to change so our values change, you'll wait forever. I'm extremely active in the political world as well, there's a lot of potential out there to make connections. All you need is to fake a permanent smile, be dynamic dynamic dynamic and to approve anything your hierarchy ever tells you. They'll not every even realize that you're bluffing, everyone does that. Moreover most of politicians are on anti depressant, which makes them mad. I call this the ''short and fat syndrome''. All those Short and Fat people thriving for attention, when you give them what they want they'll suck your boots. Those who lack ambition are shallow and weak. Life is a fight, solidarity is a myth, you've been warned.
fail plz
|
On April 08 2012 06:35 EdenPLusDucky wrote: My ambition is to absorb knowledge and share knowledge with people who don't already have it, regardless of how long I live. Pretty good ambition IMO
This, this this this.
I want to be a sponge of knowledge. I want to subject myself to a field, learn it, master it, and contribute to it. My ambition is knowledge. Both money and material have never been too much of my concern - i've never had much of either. Wouldn't mind it for some stability later in life, but, that isn't the point. I want to influence people - I want a new way to think. A new way to look at things, and to inspire people from showing them. To change things in life, be it for one person, or many. To change how things work, to influence, and help create, the new tomorrow. And, I try. Not hard enough, especially for my aims, but I do. And it doesn't work out. Stuff that is probably simpler to other people. I'm not dumb, but sometimes, I feel like I lack some kind of intellect that's required to even start on my ambitions. My comprehension is terrible. Things go over my head quite easily. When I do actually have the time to sit down, and really try to drive myself, it's a no go.
I have some close friends of mine, incomparable to my ambitions. One, throughout a course of a class we had with each other, would barely go over the course material, and perform at my level, or even above on tests/work. I could perform at that too, but, it takes me literally hours of sitting back, and forcing it. Trying to learn and understand at my own pace. It's discouraging. I have another friend, too. Unlike the last I mentioned, he actually tries in his courses. And is quite successful. He can read an excerpt, or hell, a book, and just nearly recite things from it. Remember key terms, key concepts, and say them fluidly. Only after just reading it, after any period of time, it seems like. For me, I learn a concept, study at these terms, etc, and can get them pretty well. But over time, they slip from me, as if I had never learned them.
Don't let me take from their personalities or intellect by saying their drive is sub-par - but, it's completely discouraging, and, partially upsetting, to think and feel that, perhaps, I just don't have "it." It being the thing needed to meet my ambitions. And here I am, wasting time, posting anecdote on a random forum, and probably to piss away more time with video games and reddit later.
|
my ambition is to live in an average house with average income and an average car... with some menial average job...
awww hell, i'm in the 'no ambition' group.
|
On April 07 2012 18:19 Alborz wrote:The older I grow, the less ambition I have. I wonder if this is a linear relationship. Looks like it when looking at old people 100k+ job ! Money money !! but its really saddening to think of those who get the other end of the stick. 99%/1% I think our deepest ambition as humans is the worlds ambition to be connected.
The older I've become the more ambitious I get. I feel that my life is off to a slow start and I need to be working especially hard now that I've started at a disadvantage.
It isn't about money (though I certainly would like to be wealthy) or power (though having some influence wouldn't hurt), but having accomplished something I can really be proud of
|
On April 08 2012 07:22 GeneralStan wrote:Show nested quote +On April 07 2012 18:19 Alborz wrote:The older I grow, the less ambition I have. I wonder if this is a linear relationship. Looks like it when looking at old people 100k+ job ! Money money !! but its really saddening to think of those who get the other end of the stick. 99%/1% I think our deepest ambition as humans is the worlds ambition to be connected. The older I've become the more ambitious I get. I feel that my life is off to a slow start and I need to be working especially hard now that I've started at a disadvantage. It isn't about money (though I certainly would like to be wealthy) or power (though having some influence wouldn't hurt), but having accomplished something I can really be proud of I agree. When I was younger I was probably the least ambitious person out of everyone I knew. Now as I age towards oldness, I'm like, "I have shit to accomplish! Out of my way!"
|
I'd like to be a neurosurgeon or some kind of oncologist, but IDK if I have the dedication for it. My grades freshman year aren't that great (relatively speaking, probably around a 3.7), though I have friends who assure me that freshman year is usually the hardest on your GPA.
I blogged about it awhile ago, but my childhood ambition was to be a garbage man. Those big trucks were so cool.
|
On April 08 2012 02:09 fofa2000 wrote: I'ma become an insanely rich corporate lawyer with no other concern in life than making money.
This made me laugh, as a corporate lawyer. For someone so ambitious and into money you dont really know much about corporate lawyering do you?
But yah, please please go to law school and please please please go work at the Seven Sisters of Vault 10 down South. You truly deserve that life.
|
I am not ambitious at all. My motto is "normal is the best".
|
On April 08 2012 07:22 GeneralStan wrote:Show nested quote +On April 07 2012 18:19 Alborz wrote:The older I grow, the less ambition I have. I wonder if this is a linear relationship. Looks like it when looking at old people 100k+ job ! Money money !! but its really saddening to think of those who get the other end of the stick. 99%/1% I think our deepest ambition as humans is the worlds ambition to be connected. The older I've become the more ambitious I get. I feel that my life is off to a slow start and I need to be working especially hard now that I've started at a disadvantage. It isn't about money (though I certainly would like to be wealthy) or power (though having some influence wouldn't hurt), but having accomplished something I can really be proud of Ya I feel like that too actually. Its not about money or power but about leaving something behind you are proud of. And yah, being lazy when young and just doing the 'get good grades, go to good law school thing' feels like an incredibly waste of time. Thank god my student loans are paid off, otherwise I'd join the other half of my profession and embrace raging alcoholism.
|
Voted other. My goal is to live a good life.
|
On April 08 2012 06:35 EdenPLusDucky wrote: My ambition is to absorb knowledge and share knowledge with people who don't already have it, regardless of how long I live. Pretty good ambition IMO Whenever I say things like this, people disregard learning and just say money and inane pleasure are the only important things in life. Is intellectual ambition ever going to catch on to the mainstream?
|
On April 08 2012 07:57 Roe wrote:Show nested quote +On April 08 2012 06:35 EdenPLusDucky wrote: My ambition is to absorb knowledge and share knowledge with people who don't already have it, regardless of how long I live. Pretty good ambition IMO Whenever I say things like this, people disregard learning and just say money and inane pleasure are the only important things in life. Is intellectual ambition ever going to catch on to the mainstream?
I think with intellect, there should be a purpose to it, otherwise it's really no different from a hobby.
|
On April 14 2012 12:32 husniack wrote:Show nested quote +On April 08 2012 07:57 Roe wrote:On April 08 2012 06:35 EdenPLusDucky wrote: My ambition is to absorb knowledge and share knowledge with people who don't already have it, regardless of how long I live. Pretty good ambition IMO Whenever I say things like this, people disregard learning and just say money and inane pleasure are the only important things in life. Is intellectual ambition ever going to catch on to the mainstream? I think with intellect, there should be a purpose to it, otherwise it's really no different from a hobby. Isn't intellect worth it for its own sake?
|
On April 14 2012 12:48 Roe wrote:Show nested quote +On April 14 2012 12:32 husniack wrote:On April 08 2012 07:57 Roe wrote:On April 08 2012 06:35 EdenPLusDucky wrote: My ambition is to absorb knowledge and share knowledge with people who don't already have it, regardless of how long I live. Pretty good ambition IMO Whenever I say things like this, people disregard learning and just say money and inane pleasure are the only important things in life. Is intellectual ambition ever going to catch on to the mainstream? I think with intellect, there should be a purpose to it, otherwise it's really no different from a hobby. Isn't intellect worth it for its own sake?
It does, there's always a purpose to it, everyday you can deflect certain situations with it.
|
naaah...
I've always admired these really ambitious people, who have a dream job and just go for it.. I like pretty much just live my life and see where I end up. Finished school because... well.. that's what you do right? And just got some job I more or less felt related to and didn't know what to study at university (which I could have done instead).
I can't say I'm on my dream job, because I dont have one, but I'm pretty happy
|
On April 07 2012 18:30 husniack wrote:Show nested quote +On April 07 2012 18:19 Alborz wrote:The older I grow, the less ambition I have. I wonder if this is a linear relationship. Looks like it when looking at old people 100k+ job ! Money money !! but its really saddening to think of those who get the other end of the stick. 99%/1% I think our deepest ambition as humans is the worlds ambition to be connected. how old r u Im 21. Why?
|
On April 07 2012 18:36 VforValdes wrote: I see a lot of wisdom in Alborz post. I read a lot of spirituality, philosophy and I am a pretty sharp, intelligent guy. Thank you for noticing that.
|
No one will ever remember you 100 years after you pass. The whole human existence is but a speck in the timeline of our planet. Ambition, in western society, is commonly linked to money, career etc. Very financially based point of view. This is what is so fucked up about it.
The most happy people I've ever met in life have been doing exactly what they want and they're fucking good at it. Why? Simple, they didn't give a fuck about stupid monetary goals and did what ever brought them happiness.
I couldn't give a fuck if I sleep in an average house, with a non HD tv and an outdated pc as long as I go to sleep each day knowing I did what I enjoy and I am applying myself at it and progressing with it.
It's absolutely pathetic how valuable status is in western society. Categorizing people with attributes that don't actually mean anything is a joke. Call someone who is easily influenced by others ambitious and they will work hard. Call someone ambitious who isn't trying to prove to the world how awesome they are and they will laugh and tell you you're wrong, then they will proceed to pick up their favorite activity and display world class skills.
Fuck "success". Success 200 years ago was living past 30 and it will continue to change based of public opinion and social acceptance. I'll take a smile on my face instead.
|
I think so. I make lists every day of what I need to do and try and accomplish them. I am a junior in accounting and 19, plan to work as a tax accountant or with IRS as an accountant. I like numbers and details not real good with ppl though so that's on my list too. lol.
|
strangely enough my goal in life is to start up a school to teach kids to think and to memorize better than any other school on the planet
|
On April 14 2012 16:37 Endymion wrote: strangely enough my goal in life is to start up a school to teach kids to think and to memorize better than any other school on the planet Teacher sounds like a noble profession. how would you do that? Do you have a system or just speaking in generalities? I could use the help
|
Not really, I'd like to be but I'm fairly good at being content I guess. I don't have any desire to make a lot of money but I'd like to do something that matters and make a difference. I'm not sure ambition is the right word, there are things that I want to do or have but what I lack is discipline, I'm just lazy..
|
On April 14 2012 16:37 Endymion wrote: strangely enough my goal in life is to start up a school to teach kids to think and to memorize better than any other school on the planet Well haha you're ahead of the whole education system. That's basically what we're doing today! Except you can do it much better, and faster ! YAY!
|
On April 08 2012 07:18 DuckS wrote:Show nested quote +On April 08 2012 06:35 EdenPLusDucky wrote: My ambition is to absorb knowledge and share knowledge with people who don't already have it, regardless of how long I live. Pretty good ambition IMO This, this this this. I want to be a sponge of knowledge. I want to subject myself to a field, learn it, master it, and contribute to it. My ambition is knowledge. Both money and material have never been too much of my concern - i've never had much of either. Wouldn't mind it for some stability later in life, but, that isn't the point. I want to influence people - I want a new way to think. A new way to look at things, and to inspire people from showing them. To change things in life, be it for one person, or many. To change how things work, to influence, and help create, the new tomorrow. And, I try. Not hard enough, especially for my aims, but I do. And it doesn't work out. Stuff that is probably simpler to other people. I'm not dumb, but sometimes, I feel like I lack some kind of intellect that's required to even start on my ambitions. My comprehension is terrible. Things go over my head quite easily. When I do actually have the time to sit down, and really try to drive myself, it's a no go. I have some close friends of mine, incomparable to my ambitions. One, throughout a course of a class we had with each other, would barely go over the course material, and perform at my level, or even above on tests/work. I could perform at that too, but, it takes me literally hours of sitting back, and forcing it. Trying to learn and understand at my own pace. It's discouraging. I have another friend, too. Unlike the last I mentioned, he actually tries in his courses. And is quite successful. He can read an excerpt, or hell, a book, and just nearly recite things from it. Remember key terms, key concepts, and say them fluidly. Only after just reading it, after any period of time, it seems like. For me, I learn a concept, study at these terms, etc, and can get them pretty well. But over time, they slip from me, as if I had never learned them. Don't let me take from their personalities or intellect by saying their drive is sub-par - but, it's completely discouraging, and, partially upsetting, to think and feel that, perhaps, I just don't have "it." It being the thing needed to meet my ambitions. And here I am, wasting time, posting anecdote on a random forum, and probably to piss away more time with video games and reddit later.
The only ingredient to success is hard work ALWAYS push yourself, keep learning; you have a lifetime to master whatever field you are interested in When people reach a point and stop, you can go past them, even if it took you slightly longer to get there.
|
My problem is that I don't know what my goal is.
Or maybe I'm just lazy and making excuses, not sure.
|
I'd say I'm pretty ambitious, others tell me that I'm too ambitious.
Currently I'm leading a project where we try to control virtual characters using only your mind, as the first step in a bigger project aiming to make a true total immersion virtual reality. Hopefully I'll be able to time it to when I'm supposed to start thinking about a PhD and stuff and continue some heavier research with it.
Apart from that I'm currently planning for the biggest LAN in Stockholm, trying to reach out to different organisations and people that can help out. It looks like we'll be able to have it at one of the biggest arenas here, have a meeting with that place this thursday. Also I'm on the board for one of the clubs in our student society here at my university. (I'm not sure if "on the board" and "student society" is the correct translations, hopefully it still makes sense >.<)
At the same time I'm studying Computer Game Development with focus on graphics/design, and it goes pretty well (only first year though). My grades are dwindling a bit, but it's nothing I can't manage.
So yeah. Ambition ftw.
|
If your goal is to be very different from others (super rich, highly succesful, expensive car, achieving children, prettiest wife) then you might end up in that place you wish and you are no longer able to relate to the majority of people, thus alienate yourself.
|
I want to buy a 350z, thats propably my biggest thing I want, since I recently got DS Lite.
But most recent thing is I want to keep my body in good shape, also try to participate in some running tournaments (But theres none around my area.. :< even in my High School there are none :<<)
not sure about all that long time ambitions like in 30 years I want to have family.. Cause my thinking line is this: "Each day can be your last, so live each day as you want and dont look at others"
|
My ambition is to live a creative, interesting, satisfying and pleasant life minute to minute, day to day, year to year.
I'm doing a pretty good job at it so far.
Most of it doesn't involve prestige, making money or acting important
|
I want to be happy and be able to provide happiness for those I care about. What form that takes I care less about.
|
I plan on living up to my name.
|
I would like to see the monetary system / capitalism phase out or collapse in my lifetime. This is all.
|
On April 14 2012 13:11 Alborz wrote:Show nested quote +On April 07 2012 18:30 husniack wrote:On April 07 2012 18:19 Alborz wrote:The older I grow, the less ambition I have. I wonder if this is a linear relationship. Looks like it when looking at old people 100k+ job ! Money money !! but its really saddening to think of those who get the other end of the stick. 99%/1% I think our deepest ambition as humans is the worlds ambition to be connected. how old r u Im 21. Why? Because you seem young. Most people had that line of thought sometime when they were teenagers.
|
The only ambition i have is being happy in my life. You live only once, and life is far too short to care about anything else than being happy, be it whatever makes you happy.
A job i actually like, a nice house, a nice family, enough money for some fancy new tech/media stuff, and maybe some leftover cash for some weed once in a while :D. Everything more than that i dont need, if i get filthy rich, that would be a nice bonus, but imo its really nothing to work for.
|
no poll option for no goals?
|
I once was very ambitious, forcing my body and mind to work at 120% all the time, not being happy with being just one of the best if i wasn't _the_ best... ... now i just want to have my peace and be left alone.
|
No I am not. I settle for average.
|
Just to add some to the discussion I think goals changes throughout our lives. When we were small we might have dreamed of becoming a astronaut or a singer in a band. Later on in our teenage lifes, these dreams/goals might still be the same or they have changed depending on experience that we have gathered and so on.
Anyway, my current goals and dreams are;
1. Become a firefighter. (Oh da cliché!) 2. Be happy! Be able to do those things I love to do and not giving a shit what others think about it. If I enjoy gaming, that is a part of me and people just have to accept that or just not hang around with me.
Edit: I'm 23 years old!
|
On April 07 2012 18:19 Alborz wrote:The older I grow, the less ambition I have. I wonder if this is a linear relationship. Looks like it when looking at old people 100k+ job ! Money money !! but its really saddening to think of those who get the other end of the stick. 99%/1% I think our deepest ambition as humans is the worlds ambition to be connected.
My own experience is somewhat contrary to this - my ambition got bigger gradually as I got older. When I was a kid, my family went through some tough economic times, never to the brink of starvation but we had to save on a lot of things. At that time my ambition was just to have enough money to eat Mcdonalds every day. Later on when times got better and I got to college (and had enough money to eat Mcdonalds every day if I wanted to), I wished to have a decently paying job which was somewhat professional. Now that I'm a consultant, I think about how I can make more and more money and go for a MBA at some good school
So my ambition got bigger gradually over time. Of course it may reach the top of the curve and start going back down, but I haven't experienced that yet so far.
|
Well I certainly want to be rich and powerful. Anybody saying they DON'T want to be so are either misers or are deluding themselves. Anyway, misers are people who say "God/My parents/My being alive is my money, my power and my everything. I am already the richest and most powerful person alive".
I believe there is nothing wrong to want to be rich and powerful, as long as you want to use your resources to do good unto your fellow humans. Hence, every sane person should aspire to be as rich and as powerful as we can be.
Anyway, I define "rich" as being able to earn US$1000, 000 or more per year forever. Quite similar to the SEC definition.
Edit: I'm 24 years old.
|
Yes, I do consider myself very ambitious. If I have a goal I do my best to accomplish it. My ultimate goal, like many others, is being able to live with a healthy family without worries.
|
My motto in life is: "you can't lose if you don't play".
|
I will reach my goals through the pain ive had in the past, which pulls me forward when i want to give up. Do not feel sorry for yourself, and dont be jealous, ever. Those 2 things will always keep you on track in life no matter what.
When i was young i was spoiled, weakminded and apathethic. Then you know, life does its thang and you either man up, put your head down and do your best, or you blame life and look up conspiracy documentaries while hating on your job.
Odds are most of us will live untill we are old, very old, so why not listen to what old people have to say about their lives? Why do so many people even care about having alot of stuff/money? To me its obvious, most people in their 60s-70s dont give a shit about money or status. All that counts is if you did what you wanted and got recognised for it, even if its just by like 3 people.
There is many interesting things to think about, being alive SO damn interesting and i love it most of the time.
Cheers
|
On April 14 2012 23:25 Setev wrote: Well I certainly want to be rich and powerful. Anybody saying they DON'T want to be so are either misers or are deluding themselves. Anyway, misers are people who say "God/My parents/My being alive is my money, my power and my everything. I am already the richest and most powerful person alive".
I believe there is nothing wrong to want to be rich and powerful, as long as you want to use your resources to do good unto your fellow humans. Hence, every sane person should aspire to be as rich and as powerful as we can be.
Anyway, I define "rich" as being able to earn US$1000, 000 or more per year forever. Quite similar to the SEC definition.
Edit: I'm 24 years old.
What will you do to become rich ? Money don't come out of trees. The money you want will come from other people. When you say you want to be rich, you also mean that you want other to be more poor so you could feel better by comparing. You say you want money to do good things, who are you to think that other people won't use that money in a good way ? You don't want to share, you want more than others. Because you think you deserve more ? Fix your ego and then you'll realise that being rich isn't what you REALLY want.
I just don't like the mentality of "I'll take money from them so I could care of them because I know better than them about themself".
Not very wise to say you want the good of your fellow human and in the same time say you want more money than them. Flash news : everyone can't become rich.
"But everyone want money !!" Yeah, the same way, everyone would like to have sex with that girl over there, but nobody does because rape is immoral. Being rich is also immoral bro. And please tell me how you will become rich.
|
On April 14 2012 23:40 Diks wrote:Show nested quote +On April 14 2012 23:25 Setev wrote: Well I certainly want to be rich and powerful. Anybody saying they DON'T want to be so are either misers or are deluding themselves. Anyway, misers are people who say "God/My parents/My being alive is my money, my power and my everything. I am already the richest and most powerful person alive".
I believe there is nothing wrong to want to be rich and powerful, as long as you want to use your resources to do good unto your fellow humans. Hence, every sane person should aspire to be as rich and as powerful as we can be.
Anyway, I define "rich" as being able to earn US$1000, 000 or more per year forever. Quite similar to the SEC definition.
Edit: I'm 24 years old. What will you do to become rich ? Money don't come out of trees. The money you want will come from other people. When you say you want to be rich, you also mean that you want other to be more poor so you could feel better by comparing. You say you want money to do good things, who are you to think that other people won't use that money in a good way ? You don't want to share, you want more than others. Because you think you deserve more ? Fix your ego and then you'll realise that being rich isn't what you REALLY want. I just don't like the mentality of "I'll take money from them so I could care of them because I know better than them about themself". Not very wise to say you want the good of your fellow human and in the same time say you want more money than them. Flash news : everyone can't become rich. "But everyone want money !!" Yeah, the same way, everyone would like to have sex with that girl over there, but nobody does because rape is immoral. Being rich is also immoral bro. And please tell me how you will become rich.
Being rich isn't immoral, stop trying to claim some moral highground which isn't present... Pretending you have the correct answer like you did is straight up stupid - Socrates had this figured out a couple of thousand years ago... So let's try with a bit of learning done the socratian way: "What is moral?".
And yes people are different and some people are better than others in certain fields - live with it.
|
imo, ambition without dedication is meaningless. …usually I am wishing I had more dedication, or at least more time to dedicate to pursuing my goals.
|
I want to be happy, I want to be wealthy, I care about myself first & foremost. I care about money more than being happy, money can buy my happiness, no doubt.
|
On April 14 2012 23:40 Diks wrote:Show nested quote +On April 14 2012 23:25 Setev wrote: Well I certainly want to be rich and powerful. Anybody saying they DON'T want to be so are either misers or are deluding themselves. Anyway, misers are people who say "God/My parents/My being alive is my money, my power and my everything. I am already the richest and most powerful person alive".
I believe there is nothing wrong to want to be rich and powerful, as long as you want to use your resources to do good unto your fellow humans. Hence, every sane person should aspire to be as rich and as powerful as we can be.
Anyway, I define "rich" as being able to earn US$1000, 000 or more per year forever. Quite similar to the SEC definition.
Edit: I'm 24 years old. What will you do to become rich ? Money don't come out of trees. The money you want will come from other people. When you say you want to be rich, you also mean that you want other to be more poor so you could feel better by comparing. You say you want money to do good things, who are you to think that other people won't use that money in a good way ? You don't want to share, you want more than others. Because you think you deserve more ? Fix your ego and then you'll realise that being rich isn't what you REALLY want. I just don't like the mentality of "I'll take money from them so I could care of them because I know better than them about themself". Not very wise to say you want the good of your fellow human and in the same time say you want more money than them. Flash news : everyone can't become rich. "But everyone want money !!" Yeah, the same way, everyone would like to have sex with that girl over there, but nobody does because rape is immoral. Being rich is also immoral bro. And please tell me how you will become rich.
I respect your opinion, but me being rich does not mean others will be poorer. Being rich is NOT a zero sum game. I suggest you either take up reading motivational books like Think and Grow Rich by Napolean Hill, Robert Kiyosaki's books, and etc. You will then realize that money DO grow out of thin air. The problem is 90% of the people don't know how to pluck it from the air!
You need to change your mentality towards life in general. From your words, I sense that you think that trying to get rich is sinful, because you think that to get rich means to take from other people. Now I'm telling you - getting rich means you make money for yourself, and its NEVER a zero sum game.
Anyway, how am I getting rich? Well I want to get rich by starting my own business (I chose entrepreneur in the poll as my ambition). By starting my own business, I can provide employment opportunities to my society, as well as contribute by providing valuable services to the people. If my business succeeds, then not only will I get rich, but my employees will get rich (higher salary), and more people will benefit from my company's services (branches).
More information can be found if you make an effort to look for the books I mentioned, or to participate in seminars (they are mostly free).
And flash news: ANYONE CAN BECOME RICH. Its those with discipline and determination to carry out their plans who will eventually become rich. Trust me, there are so many examples out there.
1. Steve Jobs 2. Robert Kiyosaki 3. Anthony Robbins
Just to name a few. They started out piss poor, and with not much in the way of formal education. They are rich because they contribute a lot to the economy and for the benefit of humanity. Granted I do not like Steve Jobs' way of running a company, but nevertheless his contributions far outweigh his shortcomings.
|
Wherever life is taking me, I hope it involves a happy family and annual vacations around the world!
|
As a 24 year old trying to figure out life, I don't understand the relationship people make about ambition and income. They aren't the same thing =P.
|
On April 15 2012 00:08 Setev wrote:Show nested quote +On April 14 2012 23:40 Diks wrote:On April 14 2012 23:25 Setev wrote: Well I certainly want to be rich and powerful. Anybody saying they DON'T want to be so are either misers or are deluding themselves. Anyway, misers are people who say "God/My parents/My being alive is my money, my power and my everything. I am already the richest and most powerful person alive".
I believe there is nothing wrong to want to be rich and powerful, as long as you want to use your resources to do good unto your fellow humans. Hence, every sane person should aspire to be as rich and as powerful as we can be.
Anyway, I define "rich" as being able to earn US$1000, 000 or more per year forever. Quite similar to the SEC definition.
Edit: I'm 24 years old. What will you do to become rich ? Money don't come out of trees. The money you want will come from other people. When you say you want to be rich, you also mean that you want other to be more poor so you could feel better by comparing. You say you want money to do good things, who are you to think that other people won't use that money in a good way ? You don't want to share, you want more than others. Because you think you deserve more ? Fix your ego and then you'll realise that being rich isn't what you REALLY want. I just don't like the mentality of "I'll take money from them so I could care of them because I know better than them about themself". Not very wise to say you want the good of your fellow human and in the same time say you want more money than them. Flash news : everyone can't become rich. "But everyone want money !!" Yeah, the same way, everyone would like to have sex with that girl over there, but nobody does because rape is immoral. Being rich is also immoral bro. And please tell me how you will become rich. I respect your opinion, but me being rich does not mean others will be poorer. Being rich is NOT a zero sum game. I suggest you either take up reading motivational books like Think and Grow Rich by Napolean Hill, Robert Kiyosaki's books, and etc. You will then realize that money DO grow out of thin air. The problem is 90% of the people don't know how to pluck it from the air! You need to change your mentality towards life in general. From your words, I sense that you think that trying to get rich is sinful, because you think that to get rich means to take from other people. Now I'm telling you - getting rich means you make money for yourself, and its NEVER a zero sum game. Anyway, how am I getting rich? Well I want to get rich by starting my own business (I chose entrepreneur in the poll as my ambition). By starting my own business, I can provide employment opportunities to my society, as well as contribute by providing valuable services to the people. If my business succeeds, then not only will I get rich, but my employees will get rich (higher salary), and more people will benefit from my company's services (branches). More information can be found if you make an effort to look for the books I mentioned, or to participate in seminars (they are mostly free). And flash news: ANYONE CAN BECOME RICH. Its those with discipline and determination to carry out their plans who will eventually become rich. Trust me, there are so many examples out there. 1. Steve Jobs 2. Robert Kiyosaki 3. Anthony Robbins Just to name a few. They started out piss poor, and with not much in the way of formal education. They are rich because they contribute a lot to the economy and for the benefit of humanity. Granted I do not like Steve Jobs' way of running a company, but nevertheless his contributions far outweigh his shortcomings.
Ok, I mainly misunderstood you i think. Being an entrepreneur and stimulating jobs and economy via fair business is good. I just thought (from various experiences) that the want to become rich will lead to poor salaries and evaluating the cost-effeciency of your employees rather than their well being. I think that if you want to become rich you have to think with numbers, equation, cut all the spendings that can be cut and maximise the benefices. But that's not all the entrepreneurship out there, you're right. There are difference business model, and you didn't aim for insanely rich, so I went too harsh on you. When I say everybody can't become rich, I mean that if everybody were rich. "Rich" wouldn't exist as this'll be an all middle class and prices would have adapted to that. Being rich is always in comparaison of others. But you're not aiming ultra-rich status, where all the sins really appears in my eyes. Peace, friend Don't let ass holes like me ruin your ambitions. Being an entrepreneur is difficult because you surrounding suddenly become an opponent. We're scared to see where we failed.
|
first of all, you live in the right place, my friend. Second of all, I am a completely unambitious guy. It tends to be sort of a weak point when it comes to things like school, but it allows me to be kind and aware of everyone around me, which I feel at this stage in my life is a bigger contribution to my peers than being amitious
|
Where is the option of not having any goal ? I just realized that having no goal makes me 100% win and the happiest person on this planet !
|
Something to help perk up your spirits, friends.
The Man Who Thinks He Can
If you think you are beaten, you are;
If you think you dare not, you don't. If you'd like to win, but think you can't It's almost a cinch you won't. If you think you'll lose, you've lost.
For out in the world we find Success begins with a fellow's will: It's all in his state of mind. If you think you're outclassed, you are:
You've got to think high to rise, You've got to be sure of yourself before You'll ever win that prize. Life's battles don't always go
To the stronger or faster man, But sooner or later the man who wins Is the one who thinks he can. - Walter D. Wintle
***
Success
If you want a thing bad enough To go out and fight for it, Work day and night for it, Give up your time and your peace and your sleep for it If only desire of it Makes you quite mad enough Never to tire of it, Makes you hold all other things tawdry and cheap for it If life seems all empty and useless without it And all that you scheme and you dream is about it, If gladly you'll sweat for it, Fret for it, Plan for it, Lose all your terror of God or man for it, If you'll simply go after that thing that you want, With all your capacity, Strength and sagacity, Faith, hope and confidence, stern pertinacity, If neither cold poverty, famished and gaunt, Nor sickness nor pain Of body or brain Can turn you away from the thing that you want, If dogged and grim you besiege and beset it, You'll get it! -Berton Braley
|
I find it interesting that so many people (an overwhelming majority) listed happiness as their main goal. What an indication of our generation! This is a qoute from Albert Einstein I read a few years ago that deeply changed my life view
"I have never looked upon ease and happiness as ends in themselves--such an ethical basis I call more proper for a herd of swine."
Meaning that happiness as an end is a purely selfish goal. Its sad that almost 50% voted for that.
|
On April 15 2012 01:08 Lexpar wrote: I find it interesting that so many people (an overwhelming majority) listed happiness as their main goal. What an indication of our generation! This is a qoute from Albert Einstein I read a few years ago that deeply changed my life view
"I have never looked upon ease and happiness as ends in themselves--such an ethical basis I call more proper for a herd of swine."
Meaning that happiness as an end is a purely selfish goal. Its sad that almost 50% voted for that.
I doubt anyone is literally wishing happiness as an end - if we were to offer people a choice of lying in a bed pumped full of happiness-inducing drugs everyday I don't think anyone would like that. More likely when people vote happiness they are envisioning a life with enough money, a lovely spouse, supportive family and friends and a fulfilling job, while not really wishing for a yacht or private jet.
|
Your article is very interesting, especially the part about the wolves, I didn't know that. I think about myself as an pretty ambitious person, too - but I'm often very excited about a topic and try to accomplish something and then just lose interest :/ I'm working at my stamina in concentrating at certain stuff, but it's pretty hard. Does this make me someone, who is less ambitious than others? How hard is it for you, to keep working at your dream?
|
Even if "happiness" means only modest wealth, the point is that a true goal is to better humanity. Being happy because you have a wife and a job and some money isn't a worthwhile goal for anyone but yourself.
Writing music that touches people, or a book that changes someone's life, or designing a building that is admired for generations to come- those are worthwhile goals. Going in to politics or the military to serve your country, not yourself, is a worthwhile goal. Solving a major mathematical riddle that opens up the world to new levels of scientific understanding, or ground breaking research in the field of medicine- these goals are worthy of intelligent beings.
Happiness is just masturbation.
|
On April 15 2012 01:19 Lexpar wrote: Even if "happiness" means only modest wealth, the point is that a true goal is to better humanity. Being happy because you have a wife and a job and some money isn't a worthwhile goal for anyone but yourself.
Writing music that touches people, or a book that changes someone's life, or designing a building that is admired for generations to come- those are worthwhile goals. Going in to politics or the military to serve your country, not yourself, is a worthwhile goal. Solving a major mathematical riddle that opens up the world to new levels of scientific understanding, or ground breaking research in the field of medicine- these goals are worthy of intelligent beings.
Happiness is just masturbation.
Having one of the things you listed as your goal is just about achieving something that will make you greater in your own eyes (or in the world's eyes), it's just as selfish as "trying to be happy".
You can argue that it is more valuable to the world but you can contribute to the world in a meaningful way just as a byproduct of who you are, in fact most people that did great things never had the ambition to be great, they just followed their passion (ie did stuff that made them happy).
|
I see myself as a pretty ambitious person. But I wasn't one forever. Having worked in design then finance, then a shitty sales job, and then design again I can fairly say that I took my time to find my path in life. But once you're there you're there. Doing something you truly love to the point where it makes you proud telling people what you're doing, walking head high, that for me is worth all the money in the world.
I've had times in my life where I had no ambition. And it is the worst. It took me 2 years working a shitty job where I earned 50% from my previous job. It's all about perspective in life.
I believe that for each and everyone of you who is struggling with finding your place, doubting if what you're doing is the right thing, that there is something for you. And once you find it, your whole being is energized to the point you yourself even don't recognize you anymore. I myself am fortunate enough to say I am there. And everyday is both a struggle and a blessing. Getting better at what I'm doing is all I care about when I'm at work. I hardly feel the time anymore and I can feel me being in "the zone" a lot.
I might not change or safe lifes. I might not leave a mark on this earth as big as some others claim theirs to be. But shit man. I'm happy with what I'm doing. I'm challenged in a very positive way with what I'm doing. I love what I'm doing. And that's all that matters to me.
|
I don't like the second poll, so I couldn't vote in it.
My ambition is to land a stable job as a biomedical engineer, but also to settle down and simply enjoy my life as I do it. That fits two options, "60k+ a year" and "a happy life," and I don't think one is more of my "ambition" than the other.
But I voted that I'm rather ambitious and work pretty hard at it; I'm in a good school, taking a lot of tough courses, and I'm navigating my way around love and family trying to make sure it all plays out when I'm ready. It's hard work and sometimes I don't wanna do it, but it's what I've chosen :D
|
I am pretty ambitious, I have some set goals in life that I want to achieve. Perhaps its because I am still young, but I never actually think that I won't achieve my goals in life. My main problem has always been whether the goals I set for myself are what I really want in life, or whether they are just what I have been convinced I want by others (family/society/etc). My greatest fear is that when I do accomplish these goals, I will be left with a feeling of resentment instead of success, and I will have to live with my regrets until my death .
|
On April 15 2012 01:19 Lexpar wrote: Even if "happiness" means only modest wealth, the point is that a true goal is to better humanity. Being happy because you have a wife and a job and some money isn't a worthwhile goal for anyone but yourself.
Writing music that touches people, or a book that changes someone's life, or designing a building that is admired for generations to come- those are worthwhile goals. Going in to politics or the military to serve your country, not yourself, is a worthwhile goal. Solving a major mathematical riddle that opens up the world to new levels of scientific understanding, or ground breaking research in the field of medicine- these goals are worthy of intelligent beings.
Happiness is just masturbation. In the end it all doesnt matter though, you just think that doing something better for humanity is a good thing because you, yourself are a human. In the end though humanity wont be around forever. Humanity will probably be gone within the next couple of thousand of years to due to the introduction of robots and eventually even the universe will give out. Plus, you only live life once. So why not enjoy it?
|
Ambition just takes away from enjoyment of the present.
|
I'm certainly not as ambitious as I would want to be. There are already people my age around my university who have turned their far fetched dreams of having a successful start-up, or getting an amazing job offer from a very good company into a reality.
It's depressing when I look at myself when thinking this because when I first met these people I thought "Oh these pretentious undergrads... life isn't that easy!" and sure enough they have fulfilled their dreams, before graduating. I just don't know how I should feel about it... it's not jealousy, maybe more of disappointment in myself. They are my colleagues, so good for them,
|
On April 15 2012 02:28 Sovern wrote:Show nested quote +On April 15 2012 01:19 Lexpar wrote: Even if "happiness" means only modest wealth, the point is that a true goal is to better humanity. Being happy because you have a wife and a job and some money isn't a worthwhile goal for anyone but yourself.
Writing music that touches people, or a book that changes someone's life, or designing a building that is admired for generations to come- those are worthwhile goals. Going in to politics or the military to serve your country, not yourself, is a worthwhile goal. Solving a major mathematical riddle that opens up the world to new levels of scientific understanding, or ground breaking research in the field of medicine- these goals are worthy of intelligent beings.
Happiness is just masturbation. In the end it all doesnt matter though, you just think that doing something better for humanity is a good thing because you, yourself are a human. In the end though humanity wont be around forever. Humanity will probably be gone within the next couple of thousand of years to due to the introduction of robots and eventually even the universe will give out. Plus, you only live life once. So why not enjoy it?
1: I didn't say enjoying life is bad, I said living life only to enjoy it- pursing happiness as a goal- is bad. 2: That whole "why do anything because in a thousand years robots will rule the universe" argument is retarded.
|
I will either become a child and adolescent psychiatrist or die trying. Trying to figure out my onset psychosis, hopefully I can go back to school soon, got to figure out how to replace my amphetamine need for Adhd though.
|
On April 07 2012 18:49 Mallidon wrote: As soon as I can muster up enough of my inner ambition to overcome my overpowering laziness, I'll be sorted. Well put, sir, well put.
|
I'm currently trying to get in medical school. In my country its all about the entrance exam. You have to be one of the top 10-20% scorers to get inside the school, also most education is free here including studying to become a doctor.
Two years ago I was very lazy person and I've never worked hard in my life but overtime life became more and more boring. Shortly I realized that I have to start doing something else or I might find myself completely miserable. Luckily I live in a country where you can study quite freely and that suits me well. I've never had goals in my life untill now, and I have to say, I love the feeling. Do I consider myself ambitious? No not really, but I'm aiming for one of the highest social statuses in my country for completely selfish reasons nontheless.
|
If your goal is something that is achievable, you're doing something wrong.
My dream is to become uncontested grand emperor of the universe. I also want to become rank 1 grandmaster in Korea and win code S. On top of that I want to wear a large, fluffy red cape and carry a golden stick.
The good thing about my dream is that I already fulfilled the last part of it.
|
On April 15 2012 09:03 loiop wrote: I'm currently trying to get in medical school. In my country its all about the entrance exam. You have to be one of the top 10-20% scorers to get inside the school, also most education is free here including studying to become a doctor.
Two years ago I was very lazy person and I've never worked hard in my life but overtime life became more and more boring. Shortly I realized that I have to start doing something else or I might find myself completely miserable. Luckily I live in a country where you can study quite freely and that suits me well. I've never had goals in my life untill now, and I have to say, I love the feeling. Do I consider myself ambitious? No not really, but I'm aiming for one of the highest social statuses in my country for completely selfish reasons nontheless.
We're selfish by nature, but as long as there's a benefit from it I think it's fine.
|
Just a bump. I think it's possible to be ambitious and to want a family. The poll options are by no means exclusive so I just voted for the most ambitious option I qualify for.
The whole alpha male wolves thing is pretty stupid too. I think that there are just as many ambitious women as there are men. They do better than us in school damnit! Worse at getting CEO jobs but that's more because businesses are discriminatory and rooted in ancient formalities and society kinda tells them they shouldn't become CEOs.
As an existentialist I believe in trying to do whatever I think would be best for me. Whatever makes me happy in the long run, and whatever lets me avoid sadness and bad emotions most.
|
I'm at kind of a mix. Happiness is the priority along with fulfillment in life, and that includes wealth for me. Security and playthings.
|
Why isnt there an option for "I have no ambition". The poll asks if you are ambitious but you cant say no. lol
|
Going to med school this fall, and I am not an ambitious person in the slightest. I just like school, and would rather be in it for many more years after college than work a job straight away. I also know 100% that I will make a decent living after I finish, but I just wanted to be a student for as long as I could.
|
On May 09 2012 10:30 biology]major wrote: Going to med school this fall, and I am not an ambitious person in the slightest. I just like school, and would rather be in it for many more years after college than work a job straight away. I also know 100% that I will make a decent living after I finish, but I just wanted to be a student for as long as I could. That kinda just shows you're scared of taking on the responsibility of becoming a full time worker. It doesn't say anything about ambition.
|
Northern Ireland20807 Posts
On May 09 2012 10:57 obesechicken13 wrote:Show nested quote +On May 09 2012 10:30 biology]major wrote: Going to med school this fall, and I am not an ambitious person in the slightest. I just like school, and would rather be in it for many more years after college than work a job straight away. I also know 100% that I will make a decent living after I finish, but I just wanted to be a student for as long as I could. That kinda just shows you're scared of taking on the responsibility of becoming a full time worker. It doesn't say anything about ambition. I don't know, I think it shows an appreciation for the fun of learning for learning's own sake, something that is drilled out of us too soon in our rush to join the employment rat race.
I'm of a similar mindset. The current job market over here is fucking atrocious anyway so I'm probably going to study for post-grad or retraining in another field rather than working some menial job that'd I'd despise.
I'm quite ambitious, especially in regards to the actual work and application I put in. It's not that I don't work hard I just very rarely focus on one thing, I flit between whatever is interesting me at a particular time. Reality is starting to set in for me as regards to my future prospects so I'm trying to focus a bit more these days.
|
|
|
|