Taking Initiative

What Do You Gain from Being a Self Starter and Taking Initiative

Initiative means the ability to begin something without being asked or told to do so. An initiative person has several positive qualities or attitudes such as decisiveness, willingness to act or take action, motivated and determined.

Employees who don't make the first move or wait until they are pushed usually will miss opportunities such as getting promotions and career advancements. It is also one of the reasons why couples face relationship problems and why many people have difficulties getting a date. They don't want to take the lead or are afraid to do so.

Why is it that some people are self starters and have the drive to initiate action while many wait for someone to tell them what, when and how to do things? Why do some people have the courage to act while others are laidback?

Fears, laziness and feeling indifferent are some of the reasons why many people are not taking initiative. They fear failure or are afraid of being ridiculed. It is also possible that they lack imagination and are unable to see beyond their present existence or where they are at the moment. Another possible cause of not taking initiative is the unwillingness to move out of their comfort zone because making a move involves work and thinking. Some people prefer to be among the crowd or with the majority instead of taking the lead because they don't want to be seen as different.

The Benefits of Taking Initiative

One of the benefits of taking initiative is the ability to fight your fear, uncertainty and doubt. By making the first move, you can end your fear of asking for a date, a promotion or a pay raise, speaking in public or fear of change and so on. When you are able to fight your fear, you build your self confidence and improve low self esteem.
By taking initiative, it shows that you are an action oriented person, a decision maker and committed. These are a few of the qualities of a leader. A follower would not do things without being directed or told to do so.
Missed opportunities may cause you to regret. By taking initiative, you can avoid the feeling that you've missed the boat and allowed success to pass you by.
Almost everyone imagines a better future but only a few percentage acts upon their dreams. By taking initiative, it shows that you are serious and committed and want to make your dream comes true.
You develop inner strength when you decide to make the move and take the lead in spite of self doubt and cynical remarks from others.
You will be ahead of others, gain respect and develop integrity when you make things happen while other people wait and watch for the next thing to happen before they decide to make a move.
You will gain more knowledge, skills and personal experiences with each step that you take. These are valuable lessons that will help you solve problems and succeed in whatever you do in life.
By being proactive and taking initiative, you develop sense of urgency and will be able to avoid problems and issues from getting big and difficult.

How to Become a Self Starter

Imprint Your Goals in Mind

When you know exactly what you are striving for, your mind is focused. Each day you will look for ways to take simple action to produce the 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. Imprinting your goals in mind will help you overcome your fear.

Develop Willingness to Act and to Change

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.

Develop Sense of Urgency

Anytime is the right time to embark on your thoughts and ideas. 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 creativity and resources.

Visualize the End Result

Many people see the process instead of the end result when they think of something. Because of these mental images, they are reluctant to take action as there is too much work involved. The more they dwell upon it, the more difficult it becomes to start.

One of the best ways is to visualize the end result. See it in your mind's eye what you want to experience happening. Just look at the end result. Once you can see it and feel it in your mind, you will feel motivated to take action and won't be deterred by the process and the possible challenges ahead.