When Did Ambition Become a Dirty Word

Remember when people would say, “you are so ambitious?” It was considered a compliment. Now, it is used to weaponize women who are driven toward success. Before Kamala Harris became the Vice President of the United States, the word ambitious was used to vilify and demean her character. As if being ambitious is somehow a character flaw. The truth is because she is ambitious, she achieved monumental success. Her ambition led her to become the first woman District Attorney in San Fransico, the first female Vice President, and the First Vice President of color. Vice President Harris made history as the second most powerful person in the United States government. 

As women, we should teach other women and girls there is nothing wrong with wanting to be successful or wanting to achieve their goals. We should encourage them to believe in themselves, advocate for themselves, and strive to become their best selves. As ambitious women, we know that by having a sense of what you want out of your career, you’re more likely to acquire it. We know that we can not be defined by stereotypes or put into a proverbial box to make others feel good about who they are or their achievements.

Success isn’t accomplished by lacking ambition. Nor is it determined by what other people think about your decisions and who you aspire to become. Whatever career path you decide to take, being ambitious will help you along the journey.