The Ego vs The Element of Surprise

The internationally renowned poet and author David Whyte argues that ambition arises when there is an excess of knowledge in a certain setting. He also claims that ambition hinders your ability to accept life's surprises.

The desire to achieve an ambitious goal is often overshadowed by the ego. Why? because the ego  creates a very particular definition of success. As a result, you are preventing yourself from being able to simply follow 'the journey' and be surprised by what comes your way.

It brings me great comfort to know that it is okay if you don't know what you need to do or what you should be doing. It's also fine to simply follow an impulse or desire and be surprised by the outcome.

If I apply that to myself right now, I must admit that I am uncertain about many things. I'm not completely sure what I'm hoping to accomplish in the upcoming year. However, I do know that I want to learn to appreciate the journey while knowing that no matter what occurs, I will be fine. What I am certain of is that I want to learn how to run an ethical business. I also know that I want to learn about the future; I'm not sure how, but I do know that I want to engage in conversations, dialogue, and build bold spaces for people. I'm not sure what I want to do, but I know I want to go down the path where there is room for surprise. That is why I enjoy imagining the future so much; because it allows you to be surprised.