Ambition: Virtue or Vice?

One of the pervasive problems in our culture today is the relentless pursuit of rapid success, often driven by selfish ambition. Ambition, of course, isn’t inherently negative—there’s a distinction between striving to do something well and striving solely to get ahead of others. The former fuels growth and excellence, while the latter often breeds division, dissatisfaction, and, ultimately, disillusionment.

All of us wrestle with selfish ambition at some point in our lives. I remember when I first arrived in the United States; I quickly got caught up in the race to make a name for myself through publications. For a short time, I worked tirelessly toward this goal. Yet, looking back, I recognize that I missed the mark—not because of the quantity of my work but because of its quality and intention. The drive to establish myself, though initially well-intentioned, slowly transformed into something less pure, more about recognition than contribution.

Over time, I’ve learned that the part of me that longs for validation as an author is not necessarily the side of me that is truly valuable. It’s a humbling realization, one that I hope will continue to ground me, keeping my motivations focused on what really matters.

I've had the privilege of knowing humble and selfless professionals who remind me of the value of integrity. At the same time, I have also experienced the sting of ambition unchecked—like when a conference paper I had initiated and co-authored was later published as a transaction without my name. Examples like these highlight the insidiousness of ambition when it becomes a quest for personal recognition at the expense of others.

Ambition that elevates self while compromising our character or the contributions of our colleagues is ultimately destructive. I hope I have friends with enough courage to call me out if I stray into such behavior and to help me correct the course. True friendship in our profession means having the honesty to guide each other toward integrity, even when it’s uncomfortable.

If we genuinely want to help our profession grow, honest self-reflection and open dialogue are essential. The real threat to our professional society isn’t the person who voices constructive criticism from within but rather those who reinforce a corporate culture of complacency and self-importance.

Fortunately, our field is enriched by many individuals and colleagues whose modesty, courtesy, fairness, and patience make them truly admirable. I’m grateful to know some of these remarkable people. At the same time, we must also acknowledge that, as in any group, there are those still struggling with ambition in its less constructive forms, people who are, perhaps, at an earlier stage in this journey of understanding.

Our profession will only improve when we embrace these truths, continually strive for integrity, and remember that true success is defined not by the recognition we receive but by the value we add and the character we build along the way. By aiming to uplift others, we uphold not only our own integrity but also the spirit of a profession built on collaboration and shared purpose.

Let us strive to do our best, consider how we can help others, and live with integrity.

Cheers,

Paulo