"Initiative is doing the right thing without being told." - Victor Hugo

If you want to do well in life, you need to have the initiative to imagine, think, learn and take action. It is one of the traits that leads to substantial personal growth and progress.

Don't wait for somebody to tell you how to do things. Success comes to those who initiate and have the courage to change and to act. You can decide to design your own future or allow other people to determine when or what to do. It is a matter of choice and the use of your power of decision.

How to develop initiative.

• Become a self-starter.

Don't wait around for things to happen. Become a go getter. Always know what needs done and find better ways to make things easier and faster to increase productivity. Build in the desire to accomplish things, work confidently on them and expect great things to happen. When you complete a goal, start something else. Practice the act until it becomes a habit.

• Know what you want and want it bad enough.

When you know exactly what you are striving for, you activate your focus. Each day you will look for ways to take simple action to produce your desired result. You will tend to follow through your plans with determination. Your mind remains alert and you are more likely to recognize and seize opportunities.

• Readiness to take action.

The thought of taking the first step on a new venture or idea will scare you a little. The way to overcome your fear and inertia is to just go ahead in spite of your trepidation. You don't need outside approval but a willingness to act. Use your discretion and set yourself in motion. The key is to start with what you can or should do because whatever action you take will produce result. Once you begin something, you set the momentum.

• Doing it right away.

Anytime is the right time to embark on your thoughts and ideas. Whatever you set out to do, do it right away. Once the idea is fresh in your mind, do your homework and prepare yourself. Use your ingenuity and work out your plan of actions and take the necessary steps immediately. You do not have to wait for the right people or the expert advice. You can become innovative by using your own creativity and resources.

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