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​Much of our childhood - the school we attend, who our neighbors are, or what sort of conversations we hear at the kitchen table - is influenced by external socioeconomic circumstances, such as our parents' professions.

Your level of ambition is no exception. 

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Ambition is shaped or influenced by these same factors, and the society and culture that surround us. 

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• In the West, ambition is a trait typically seen as a key to business success. Some Asian cultures have traditionally stifled any outward display of drive. It isn´t a coincidence that one of the most famous Japanese proverbs is: “the nail that sticks out gets hammered down”. Recently, in China, with the growing economy and a lower proportion of government jobs available, people are freer to jump between jobs and move up the chain - a display of ambition not seen before.

• Even within the US, it´s proven that if you are from California, or your parents succeeded in business, you are more likely to associate ambition with success or approved role models such as NBA players.

• If you are from a lower-income family, you are more likely to feel lucky for having a good job in hard economic times, and you are more encouraged to be grateful for what you already have

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So most of us reflect on and act (or don´t act) with ambition influenced by the paradigm we grew up in. ​​

Ambition, though, coupled with other ingredients, is key to success everywhere. 

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​​​​Choosing to be and act ambitious is a personal decision.

If you decide to do so, this Platform can guide you on how to make choices, get better prepared for them and more importantly, build the mindset that can help you make connections that help you on your way.