Ambition is a curious notion – difficult to define precisely. Stretching from “a wish list” to “the purpose of my life”. The difference between the two is the action list and activity to make “whatever it is” a reality. Sadly, in the world we live in, achieving an ambition is one of the determinants as to whether we are living a successful life.

This sign was on display at the opening ceremony of the London Olympics in 1948. This is the basis of fair play and the sporting ethos. Today, with so much at stake- fame and vast fortune- moments that reflect this approach are rare. Examples of cheating, diving, competitive nastiness are a daily occurrence – being a gracious loser is regarded as just “a loser”!

How we approach our life has parallel themes. The degree to which ambition is embedded into our life’s purpose will shape our personality and the values we hold dear.

We have some lifelong friends who are incredibly laid back, take life as it comes, have very modest goals and recognize that there is always tomorrow. They are some of the happiest people we know – and some of the nicest people to hang out with. – which we have been doing for 47 years. Life for them is not competing but just taking part.

This is a universal concept but most importantly, it is a choice. It is something we all should think about, because it is all about getting to a happy place.