Initiative: Recognizing and doing what needs to be done without being asked or coerced

Being proactive and planning ahead + self-motivated action = initiative

Initiative requires:

  • Active needs assessment:  A person with initiative is always scanning their environment to prepare for the next step, to make the company better, or to build the team.
  • Action:  Taking the initiative leads you to take personal responsibility in the situation.
  • Adaptability:  People with initiative anticipate necessary change and are flexible and adaptable.

“Without initiative, leaders are simply workers in a leadership position.”  – Bo Bennett

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