The ladder represents the things that propel you upwards with some speed. They are not always what you think. We assume that ambition is good and that climbing the corporate ladder is the obvious career goal. Both are reasonable assumptions, but don't forget that raw talent needs preparation and experience. This experience needs nurturing in the right environment with good credentials, training policies, and plenty of ladders for the right players. Unrefined energy will prove helpful, but do not forget that it is not a game for one (some will have started the game long before you), and that you give other players a turn too.