Become Proactive And Master Success
If you have experienced a time when your motivation for getting things done on the job (or in life, for that matter) has proved to be more elusive than usual, then you're not alone; this problem is quite prevalent. In fact, it's estimated that 70% of people don't feel motivated at work. The thing is, though — with a little bit of proactive skill and practice — you'll likely be motivated again within no time! You just need to know how to adopt a pro-active mindset or learn what pro-activity can yield.
So, what is pro-activity, exactly? It's simply being proactive in the face of everything that's at stake.
When we experience depression and discouragement, do we respond by taking a passive stance or are we proactive in our approach to life? I'd like to think that a positive, proactive mindset inspires us to act in spite of how overwhelmed we feel. With one of these two mindsets at work, can you achieve more despite the struggle?
In this article we'll be exploring the following: Are you a go-getter or more of a "stay-at-home" type; what determines this difference; why it's important to be proactive; and how you can adopt a proactive mindset that actually works.
Be the Hero
To truly be proactive, you'll need to make the distinction between being a do-er and being a do-gooder. Determined and determined people are proactive, while those who are actively motivated for a larger cause are do-gooders.
In other words, be proactive as an individual; don't wait for others to take action or provide assistance — and certainly don't wait for everyone else to act. You're the hero of your own story, so lead your life by making decisions that will make you feel happy and engaged.
Be Proactive in Creating Value
The goal of anything we do is simply to bring value to the world. But, how do we measure this value?
One of the easiest ways to do this is by looking at the size and scope of our impact on the world — specifically, how much value are you bringing to your industry and community? You can learn more in my article on why it's important to be proactive in order to master success.
Start Small
If you're not used to being proactive, it can seem like a scary concept at first. Some people think they have to take drastic action or start a big project before they become proactive; but really all you need is to start small. In fact, if you're just beginning your career or looking for a new opportunity, then starting small can help keep things manageable for you.
How, exactly, can you start small? Make a list of simple things that you can do to create value and tackle them one step at a time. Once all these little things are done, you'll be surprised by how much you've accomplished!
Do the Dishes
Perhaps this sounds like an odd place to start… but let's not forget that it's about taking one step at a time — and for some people this involves doing mundane tasks in order to start creating value. If you want to be proactive, you'll need to do these things. For example, maybe your list of value-creating tasks is as follows:
Clean a room
Wash a load of clothes
Pick up some trash
Shovel a bit of snow
These are all simple tasks that seem inconsequential when viewed in the full scope of your life. But, upon completing just one or two of these items, you'll likely realize that they really do make a big difference! Whether or not it feels like it in the moment, if you keep moving forward with these simple tasks and others like them, then you'll realize that you're becoming more proactive.
Boost Your Energy
If you're lacking energy, then it's tough to be proactive. But, if you have a surplus of energy, it's easier to be proactive! This is why many businesses concentrate on getting people energized — because they know that lots of energy is a key component in being proactive.
So, how can you boost your energy? Quite simply — by making small changes every day. A good example would be the simple act of smiling; it can make a huge difference in how we feel and contributes to positivity overall. A simple smile from you can help break up a stressful day.
Keep Going
If you're looking to be proactive, then keep going! It's important to be persistent and persevere through the challenges and obstacles along the way. We sacrifice a lot in our lives, so it only makes sense to make this sacrifice count.
How can we do this? By simply putting one foot in front of the other and by staying focused on your goals. For example, going to work on time once per day is one tiny step towards achieving more for yourself — but if you do this every day for five days in a row, your efforts across the board will take you farther.
As you approach your goals, be patient — and don't get discouraged. Remember, being proactive is a lifelong journey of continuous growth and development.
Don't Get Distracted
The final point that we need to consider is the importance of staying focused on your priorities. If you're constantly distracted by what's going on around you, then it's tough to be proactive. You might feel that this isn't your problem — but deep within yourself, you know that these distractions aren't helping you grow and develop (if they were, then would they have been around all this time?).
Distractions are everywhere — it's up to you to keep focused enough to overcome them. And, ironically, the more you focus on your goals and priorities, the less distracted you'll become.
Start Being Proactive Now
The first step to being proactive is to be aware of your mindset. Once you do this, it's easier to understand what kind of person you really are — and this allows you to be conscious of how other people are viewing you. Are you being perceived as a do-gooder, or are you coming across like you're trying to get ahead at the cost of others?
How can we counter this perception? By taking one step at a time and sticking to our priorities. If you want to be more proactive in your life and career, then take the first step today!
This article was written by Adam Sharp — founder of The Sharp Life , a blog that focuses on personal development and achievement. Read more articles at The Sharp Life . Add Adam on Google+ . Add Adam on Twitter . Subscribe to Adam's RSS feed .
Conclusion: If You Want To Be More Proactive, Then Start Growing Now!
The truth is that we're each capable of being so much more. We can stop trying to fit in and start standing out — we can begin to be more productive and focus on becoming striking individuals. That's what we all want to do, right? In fact, it's a dream of most individuals (if they're honest with themselves). When you're focused on being proactive in your life, then you'll know exactly what you want to do…
So, just take one step at a time towards your goal — and don't stop until you reach it. Do this little thing consistently every day — even if it seems like a small step along the way.