Ambition vs. Greed: Which One Fuels Real Success?

After rewatching Wall Street, I found myself lingering on Gordon Gekko’s infamous line:
“Greed is good.”

The character, brilliantly detestable, argues that greed drives innovation, fuels progress, and underpins human advancement—from money to love to art.
But let’s be honest—he's not exactly someone you'd want your kids emulating.

So, what if he’d said something else?
What if instead of greed, he said:

“Ambition is good.”

Now that lands differently, doesn’t it?

The Power of Ambition

By definition, ambition is a strong desire to achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work—often related to success, power, or personal advancement.

That sounds… noble. Focused. Driven—but not destructive.
Ambition elevates. Greed consumes. And the difference? It's all in your intent.

Jim Rohn’s Lens: Ambition In Service

Business philosopher Jim Rohn said it best:

“I only want something at the service of others; not at the expense of others.”

That line has been a guiding light in my life for the past twenty-five years.
It echoes another powerful principle from Wallace Wattles:

“Give more in use value than you take in cash value.”

Whether in business, art, love, or community—you can be ambitious without stepping on others. You can rise while lifting others up.

Zig Ziglar’s Secret to Getting Everything You Want

Zig Ziglar put it like this:

“You can have anything you want in life, if you’ll help enough other people get what they want.”

That’s not just a quote. That’s a strategy. That’s ambition with integrity.

So… Ambition or Greed?

You decide.

But if your path is paved with purpose, generosity, and service, then ambition isn’t just good—it’s essential.
So dream big. Work hard. Help others.
And watch what happens.

Final Note:

If you're chasing a goal and looking for the right support, guidance, or inspiration—we’re here to help.
Let ambition lead.
[Click HERE to connect with Story Real Estate.]