For most of my life, ambition was an ally. It helped me join the Royal Navy at 16 with no qualifications, rise from the lower deck to become an officer, build a second career in financial services and create TEN. Every chapter rewarded the same formula: aim higher, work harder and do more. But ambition has a shadow. It can turn every achievement into the starting line for the next. At 64, I am not less ambitious; I am learning to be more selective about what deserves my time and energy.
-
Diagnose what has changed.
If your energy or recovery has declined, your capacity may have changed and your workload must change with it. If your motivation has faded, ask whether the work itself still matters to you.
-
Redefine what drives you.
Achievement, status and recognition can take us a long way, but may not sustain us forever. Focus instead on work that feels useful, meaningful and genuinely engaging.
-
Set your own standard.
Ask whose expectations you are trying to meet. If success depends on constant approval, there will never be a finishing line. Decide for yourself what excellence and enough mean.
-
Protect what energises you.
Notice which activities leave you feeling more alive. Shape more of your life around them and delegate, reduce or stop what repeatedly drains you.
-
Make ambition serve your life.
My own measure is now 50 purposeful hours each week: 25 for work and 25 for life. I still want to finish my book, mentor leaders and young people, stay strong, play tennis, make music and serve my clients well. The ambition remains, but it now serves the life I want rather than consuming it.
The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please contact us.
Looking for a speaker for your next event?
William Montgomery, our Founder and CEO, is available as a keynote speaker and event host. His experience as a speaker encompasses a wide number of audiences on a diverse array of subjects. He is also a volunteer for Speakers for Schools and Inspiring the Future.