Probably because, especially as Americans, we are usually headed up the ladder and so look where we're going.
However you can always work your way up the ladder of power, and respect.
The first man up the other ladder got the same treatment.
The further up the ladder you go, the more it begins to take over your life.
After decades of working her way up the ladder, she is finally No. 1.
Others find themselves working their way up the international corporate ladder.
At the same time, he was working his way up the ladder of the local Democratic organization.
Nobody wants to be first up the ladder or number one through a closed door.
He moved quickly up the ladder and over the side of the boat.
"People are taking their first steps up the economic ladder here."