Ambition is the path to success. Persistence is the vehicle you arrive in. – Bill Bradley

I read a story about a turkey and a bull. One day a turkey was chatting with a bull. “I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree” sighed the turkey, “but I haven’t got the energy.” 

“Well, why don’t you nibble on some of my droppings?” replied the bull. “They are filled with nutrients.”

The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found it actually gave him enough strength to reach the lowest level.

The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch.

Finally, after the fourth night, the turkey was proudly perched at the top of the tree.

He was promptly spotted by a farmer who shot him out of the tree.

Moral of the story:

BS might get you to the top, but it won’t keep you there.

This funny story illustrates in some way the ambition that many people have – especially in leadership. 

As a leader, it’s great to have goals, dreams, and aspirations. Every leader should. But the motives behind those aspirations are what you need to pay close attention to. 

Here are a few reminders for leaders as you consider getting to the top.

There’s always a price to pay for your ambition

Your goals, dreams, and aspirations come with a price tag. In order to achieve them you must count the cost and be willing to pay it. Ambition alone will not get you to the top. But combine it with hard work and persistence, you can get there. 

Not everyone will share your dream

In leadership, you quickly learn that not everyone shares your ambitions and some will question your motives. Resolve and settle these things in your own heart and mind in the beginning because there will be some days it’s all you have to hold onto. Your journey will not be understood by everyone and you have to be OK with that. Stay true to your dreams and don’t worry about those slinging manure.

Your success will make you a target

Just as the farmer spotted the turkey at the top of the tree and shot it down, you must understand that climbing the ladder of success will at times make you a target. Others will be jealous of your success. Some will resent you for leaving them behind- not everyone will pay the price and take the journey with you while others with impure motives, will want to see you fail. Keep climbing anyway!

Final Thoughts

Take to heart the wisdom from Mark Twain who said, “Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people do always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great”. And this, in part, is the key to your success. Stay away from the people who belittle you or want to hold you back. You’ve got too much invested in your dreams and goals to allow others to hold you back.

 

©2023 Doug Dickerson