Ambition: Friend or Foe?

The qualities of ambition, strong work ethic, and determination are universally regarded as virtues that, if fostered, will guide us to success in our professional lives. Whether it be through writing or teaching, I often find myself promoting the importance of finding personal inspiration and drive. However, in today's society, in almost every imaginable profession, it seems as if somewhere along the way, we have let dissatisfaction and pressure intermingle too deeply with our ambition. It almost seems as though a determination to be the best walks inevitably with discontent and frustration. How many of you finish a case and find yourselves criticizing your work, practically searching for each and every imperfection? I know that I find myself wrestling with these feelings on a regular basis. Certainly, some level of self-critique is vital; that is how we grow and improve. However, as I continue to learn, it becomes ever more apparent to me that there's a point when this voice of distrust in ourselves can cause more damage than good.