According to Richard Restak, so much obsession causes distress and "interference with daily social or work activities (Restak 7)." Although it is portrayed as a negative concept, the author uses examples where such ambition or obsession with something is actually positive. As an example, he uses a doctor obsessed with his career as a benefit to us. Although he may go overboard with his practices, in the end it could be beneficial to others.

In the 2 Samuel 13:2, there is another example given of when an unhealthy obsession can turn fatal. Amnon was so obsessed with his sister that it made him "ill". From a biblical perspective, selfish ambition will lead to evil desires and outcomes.

Dr. Jekyll sacrificed his friendships as well as his sanity because he was so obsessed with his work. He would hardly eat or sleep and wouldn't come out of his laboratory. His obsession cost him his social life and ultimately ended in his doom.

Everyone has some sort of desire. How far they are wiling to go to achieve is another matter. Sacrificing everything you have for a selfish ambition is very dangerous.