The Power of Obsession
Why do some people go on to become CEOs while others, equally intelligent, capable and hardworking, never quite make it to the top? Why do some careers continue to move forward at an accelerated pace, while others seem to stall, even when individuals are doing everything they are supposed to do?
I have often reflected on this question. And after observing leadership and careers unfold over more than two decades, I have come to believe that one quality makes a significant difference: obsession.
The people who reach the highest levels of their careers are often deeply obsessed with something. It could be a purpose they believe in, a business problem they are determined to solve, a vision they want to bring to life, or an extraordinary level of success they believe they are capable of achieving.
But there is an important distinction here: chasing success and being obsessed with success are two very different things.
Chasing Success vs. Being Obsessed with the Work
When you chase success, your attention is largely focused on the outcome. You wonder whether you will get that promotion, earn the next title or receive the recognition you deserve. You start comparing your progress with others and wondering why someone else got ahead of you. Your focus remains on where you are and how quickly you are moving towards the next milestone.
But when you are obsessed, something fundamentally changes. You stop focusing so much on the rewards and start becoming deeply invested in the work itself. You become genuinely interested in the business, the customers, the challenges, the people and, most importantly, the results.
Your questions begin to change. Instead of asking when you will get promoted, you start asking what you can improve, which problems you can solve, what you might be missing, what you need to learn and what you could do differently next time. Your attention shifts from what you stand to gain to what you can contribute.
Don't Just Want the Position. Become the Person Who Can Handle It.
This is perhaps the most important distinction. When you are chasing a position, you want the title, the authority and the recognition that come with it. But when you are obsessed with the work, you focus on becoming the person who is capable of handling that position.
You develop a deeper understanding of the business, take ownership of problems beyond your immediate responsibilities, remain curious and constantly push yourself to deliver better outcomes. In the process, you begin developing the judgment, perspective and capabilities that leadership at the next level demands.
The goal is not simply to get the next position. It is to grow into someone who is ready for it.
Perhaps that is what separates people whose careers continue to accelerate from those who find themselves standing still. The most meaningful career growth often happens when you become so invested in solving problems, creating value and getting better at what you do that the next opportunity becomes a consequence of your growth, rather than the only thing you are working towards.
So, instead of asking yourself, "How do I get to the top?" perhaps a more powerful question is: "What am I so deeply committed to that I am willing to become exceptionally good at it?"
Because sometimes, the difference between a career that moves forward and one that stalls is not intelligence, hard work or capability. It is the depth of your obsession with the work itself.
Your Good Friend and Coach
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