Initiative is defined as, “Recognizing and doing what needs to be done before I am asked to do it.”

After reviewing the other 48 character traits, I believe that initiative could very well be the common denominator, the catalyst if you will, that aids many of the other character traits to their total fulfillment. How would the Traits of Benevolence, Compassion, Dependability, Honor, Orderliness, Responsibility, or Truthfulness be fully implemented and where would our society, country, and world be without the infusion of Initiative? 

Initiative can be used in our daily lives to advance the simplest of courtesies or initiative can be used as the foundation to advance monumental changes to mankind.

Five “I will” statements for Initiative:*

 1.      “I will do what is right before being told.”

A person who has initiative understands his or her surroundings and takes appropriate steps to improve them.

 2.      “I will not put off until tomorrow the things I can do today.”

If you do not make the best of the opportunities you have, your dreams will never become reality.  Benjamin Franklin once said, “One today is worth two tomorrows.”

 3.      “I will contribute to the success of the whole team.”

Initiative allows you to contribute directly to the team’s success.  Recognize what the team needs, and do it.

4.      “I will be a part of the solution rather than the problem.” 

Learn to recognize challenges before they become major problems. Think through projects and events.

 5.      “I will look for ways to help others.”

How you manage your time will put you in position for either success or failure.  Determine what priorities should take precedence, and balance your schedule accordingly.

*www.characterfirst.com