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#840 - Oliver Burkeman - 8 Unexpected Lessons To Be Less Hard On Yourself
Modern Wisdom
Ambition without Insecurity: Achieve for Joy, Not Validation
Ambition often stems from a desire to fulfill an internal void rather than a genuine pursuit of joy or interest. Many high-achieving individuals pursue their goals to prove their worth, scrambling to reach a baseline of adequacy, which creates a cycle of insecurity. This leads to a desperate need for validation through accomplishments, rather than engaging in activities for their intrinsic value. The idea is to shift the mindset from achieving solely to feel 'adequate' to achieving for enjoyment and meaningful experiences. This transition allows for a more fulfilling approach to ambition, freed from the negative emotions like guilt and shame, which can accompany achievements pursued from a place of inadequacy. Ultimately, this redefined ambition can lead to greater satisfaction and a more enriching life.
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