Ambisjon

Ambisjon is a noun describing a strong desire to achieve a goal or attain success in a chosen area. In Norwegian, Danish and Swedish, the term is used to denote personal aims and the motivation to pursue them. In English, the cognate ambition carries a similar meaning. The concept can refer to specific objectives, such as a promotion, or to a broader drive for self-improvement.

Etymology: The word originates from Latin ambitio "a going around, canvassing" and development through Old French ambicion to Middle English ambition. The sense expanded from political striving to a general aspiration for achievement. In many modern languages the term is neutral, though contexts may mark it as positive or negative.

Ambition is a central idea in psychology and education. It is closely related to achievement motivation and goal-setting. Ambitious people may plan steps, seek feedback, and invest effort over time. However, excessive ambition can lead to stress, burnout, or unethical behavior if the ends are pursued without regard to rules or consequences. Balancing ambition with realism and values is common in coaching and guidance.

Social and cultural factors influence how ambition is cultivated and valued. Socioeconomic conditions, education systems, and family expectations shape opportunities to pursue goals. Some cultures emphasize collective success or social contribution, while others celebrate individual advancement. In public discourse, ambition is often praised as a driver of progress but occasionally criticized when it becomes competitive or exclusionary.