Stepping Forward

Posted on November 05, 2010 by Ronald T. Brown, Ph.D.

Being assertive, in the proper setting and situation, is a great advantage – especially when it comes to your career and reaching your potential. After all, most supervisors do not care about the kind of tie you have on, or how well you make coffee. They are interested in, and are likely to remember, if you are a person who wisely and consistently shows initiative.

Whether in your career, working on a hobby, or personal goal – learning how to take initiative is the first step to achieving grander goals and attaining your highest ambitions.  Taking initiative truly opens the doors of success…

**When showing initiative, remember these truths:

1) Taking Initiative Does Not Equate To Being Aggressive.
Many people make the mistake of thinking that showing initiative, or begin assertive, is the same thing as being aggressive – thus they hesitate to step out.  While being an “aggressive” person can backfire on you big time – wisely and boldly showing initiative will open doors and quicken your ability to attain your dreams and goals.

Being aggressive is mean.  On the other hand, being assertive is about proactively facilitating growth in yourself and organization.

2) Your Initiative Rests On Self-Confidence.
It is hard to consistently show initiative when you lack self-confidence.  And the foundation for building your confidence is belief – Belief in yourself, your dreams, and what you can become.

3) Initiative Benefits Every Area Of Life.
Therefore, in your spiritual, physical, social, and mental life – work to boldly step forward by:
Seeking
Asking
Going
Moving
Apologizing
Loving
Confronting
Helping…

** Your choice to step out will pay rich dividends.