Blind Ambition?

How can I be successful, and how is it measured?

Perception has its proper place, but how quickly it can consume.

It can all start with a new pair of shoes. My old ones are comfortable, but I’ve noticed other people staring at them at meetings. There’s a scuff on the side and they are visibly duller, no matter how much polish I apply.

While I’m sprucing up the shoes, I might as well look at the rest of my wardrobe. How about a new pair of slacks? And I might as well get a coat to go along with the slacks.

And while I’m dealing with how others perceive me, I think its time for a new car. The old one is – well – old. And that car won’t look right going into my old garage – so I probably should get a new garage, presumably with a new house. Now, about my old family…hmmm…. Well, that’s a stretch, but you get the point.

Climbing the career ladder is often based on the superficial — and often to the detriment of others.

How much of our success hinges on the failure of someone else? Our very value and worth is only by comparison to others — and that’s where perception comes into play. If the boss thinks I’m doing a better job than the other guy, either by real results or just ‘looking good’, then I can be successful. Sometimes, that’s the sum whole of the competitive environment.

Does the much vaunted American business machine depend on who looks the best? And this blog is written by two middle-aged guys. What kind of issues do women deal with?

And while I’m asking questions, here’s a biggie. Why do I want to be successful? Is it because I want to fulfill God’s potential? Or is because of pride and selfish ambition?

What is the answer? Can you help?