… Satisfaction

 

When selecting a movie to watch and finding myself with countless options last night, I turned to the 99c rental of the week. This turned out to be a somewhat pedestrian romantic comedy called “Two Night Stand”. However watching these films can give a great appreciation of those that have achieved originality. There was however one scene in which a character expressed his opinion towards ambition, and today’s human nature to achieve and build. During this scene he claims “ambition is such bullshit… it’s just chasing vapour… whatever it is that you think that you need… fancy desk, nice office… once you get that you’re going to be confused because you’re not going to be as happy as you thought you would be… because there is another desk, there is always going to be something more that your ambition is telling you that you need… it’s an endless cycle”. This got me pondering my own ambition and whether or not I agreed with him.

I feel as though my underlying disgust with human consumerism and need that has come about gives me motivation to agree. We as people have become so consumed with always reaching forward, achieving more, gaining more – whether credit, recognition, material possessions. Do we ever really stop to think about the repercussions of our actions or whether it is really a pointless game that we have created out of life? Constantly aiming for a raise, a better title, striving always to do and be our best. What if it is that ambition, drilled into us from parents, friends, school and expectations that is stopping us from just living, appreciating and satisfied. The constant search for happiness and pride could be what is blocking so many of us from enjoying the simplicity and beauty that nature has to offer.
Which brought me to my next stage of thought… Why does the word ambition in this sense have to be so closely related to an occupation or a number, an income? When I think of my own ambition, of course is to do and be my best person. However that concerns all of my wellbeing, in which my relationships and experiences rank far higher than my required profession. I pursue to travel, to meet many walks of life, understand cultures and enjoy the moment. Naturally, I hope my means of income may intertwine with these pursuits, but if not I intend to ensure it is only a means to an end.

Perhaps our generation has become too obsessed with the idea of enjoying your job, doing what you love. Is it really possible? And does this desire bring us this cycling ambition; never convinced or contented?