Vocabulary
1. Urge (n)/ ɜːrʤ/: a strong desire, especially one that is difficult or impossible to control
Ex: She has an urge for chocolate.
2. Resilience (n)
/rɪˈzɪliəns/: the ability to become strong, healthy, or successful again after something bad happens
Ex: Their lack of courage, resilience, and determination eventually caused the team to fail miserably.
3. Hindrance (n)
/ˈhɪndrəns/:a thing that provides resistance to someone
Ex: They faced a number of hindrances when trying to set up the new business.
4. Bigotry (n)
/ˈbɪɡətri/:intolerance towards people with different opinions
Ex: Religious fanatics are often accused of bigotry.
5. Avarice (n)
/ˈævərɪs/:extreme greed for material things
Ex: Some people think that avarice is the root of all evil.
6. Ruthlessness (n)
/ ˈruːθləsnəs/:lack of compassion; cruelty
Ex: Because of his ruthlessness, nobody even tries to get close to him.
7. Prudent (adj)
/ˈpruːdnt/: sensible, careful, wise
Ex: One should be very prudent with personal data online.
Reading
People have various ambitions throughout life, and the definition of the word largely depends on whom you ask. Generally speaking, ambition is an urge to achieve something. It is the inner force that propels people towards their goals.
In the modern world, ambition is often held in high regard. Positive ambition is perceived as a driving force that can help people navigate through a labyrinth of obstacles. Mapping a plan for success in any aspect of life teaches resilience. Ambitious people find a way around their problems and overcome any hindrances they may encounter.
However, ambition can also be associated with negative characteristics, such as ruthlessness and a desire for power. Some people think that ambition is the primary source of bigotry and avarice. However, in reality, having ambitions does not inevitably mean choosing “the dark side.”
For any ambitious plan to come to fruition, prudent planning is necessary. With the power of self-trust, hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.
1. How can we define ambition?
2. Why is ambition held in high regard by many people?
3. Is ambition a positive or negative characteristic?
Discussion
1. Do you agree with this statement? Why? Why not?
2. Which do you think is more important in order to achieve success, intelligence or ambition?
3. Is it possible to achieve great things without being ambitious?
Further discussion
1. Can you recall your first ambition?2. Have your ambitions changed significantly over time? Why? Why not?
3. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
4. How do other people influence our ambitions? Has anyone tried to belittle your ambitions?
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