Is Your Ambition Killing You?
Your Ambition Is Killing You
"Your Ambition Is Killing You."
I first heard this phrase spoken by Sanford Meisner, one of the most respected acting teachers of the 20th century. It was addressed to a young acting student during a class. This phrase was spoken by Meisner at the conclusion of an exercise performed by a dedicated student, who I'll refer to as Sam.
The Dangers of Blind Ambition
Sam was a model student. He worked tirelessly. He completed his homework, practiced at every opportunity, and was determined to become not just a good actor, but a great actor. Every effort was aimed at achieving his goal. Nothing was going to stand in Sam's way as he strived to be the best.
Yet, despite his dedication, Sanford Meisner said, "Sam, your ambition is killing you." So, why would such a seasoned teacher, known for his ability to cultivate talent, say this to a hardworking student?
ED HARRIS. . .
"Actors WANT so DESPERATELY to succeed."
The True Cost Of Blind Ambition
The Problem with Excessive Ambition
Sam's intense ambition to gain acknowledgment and validation from Meisner and his peers ultimately undermined his work. His need to be liked and approved of by others crippled his ability to focus on the task at hand—acting itself. This kind of ambition, where external validation becomes the driving force, can be self-sabotaging. Sam's ambition was killing him because it overshadowed his true purpose.
Ambition in Society
An acting class can be seen as a microcosm of society, where individuals and organizations strive to compete, succeed, and be recognized. This excessive focus on achieving specific outcomes is often fueled by the need for validation from authority figures or peers. We want approval, but when that desire becomes our primary motivation, we risk losing the true joy of the journey.
The True Cost of Blind Ambition
When ambition is solely about achieving recognition, we stand to lose something far more valuable—the ability to be fully present in the moment. We become so fixated on a desired outcome that we forget to embrace the process. It’s about being mindful, enjoying the work, and being motivated by the journey rather than the result.
A Powerful Quote to Reflect On
The Australian author Thomas Keneally once said:
"It is only when you abandon your ambitions that they become possible."
This quote speaks to the idea that when we stop obsessing over our ambitions, we free ourselves to truly experience success in its natural form.
Viktor E. Frankl on Success and Happiness:
In his book Man’s Search for Meaning, Viktor E. Frankl shares a valuable lesson: "Don’t aim at success. The more you aim at it and make it a target, the more you are going to miss it. For success, like happiness, cannot be pursued; it must ensue, and it only does so as the unintended side effect of one’s personal dedication to a cause greater than oneself..."
Frankl’s words remind us that success and happiness are byproducts of dedication, not goals to chase. True success comes when we stop trying to control every outcome and focus instead on doing our best and living with purpose.
Is your ambition killing you?
Reflect on what drives you. Is it the pursuit of external approval, or are you motivated by something deeper? True fulfillment comes when you stop chasing results and start embracing the process.
