Being Proactive - A Virtue?

Everyone knows what the seven virtues are. If you don’t, they are humility, kindness, abstinence, chastity, patience, liberality and diligence. In my opinion, there could be a lot of other “virtues” such as being proactive.

This semester, before I earn my bachelor’s in broadcast journalism, I am learning a lot about time management, organization, communication and genuine discipline. While I am taking the classes required for me to walk the stage in August, I am forced to complete tasks ahead of time. Some of these tasks include professional experience, networking and applying for internships and to jobs for post-graduation.

My parents always tried to help me be more proactive in high school and tried to explain to me what exactly that meant. I am quickly learning that if I don’t take care of certain things before graduation, it will be too late after.

I believe being proactive isn’t something that comes natural for some people. Being proactive requires somewhat of a vision whether that be a professional workplace vision, a vision for a future home or maybe just for a certain activity. We can be proactive toward something as small as buying tickets for a concert that is a few months away.

Some people, however, may not have this proactive trait. Being proactive doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t working toward a goal or have plans for their life. As a procrastinator myself, I can testify that it feels much better to complete tasks ahead of time, which leads to less stress in the long run.

A one way to work on being more proactive might consist of a little self-reflection. What are you thinking for the next six months or through the rest of the year? If that means finally quitting that job that you haven’t enjoyed for the last year, begin searching for a position at a different company. If you find yourself yearning to move to a different city or state, do some Googling and see what you can find by a few searches and phone calls.

If self-reflection is too big of a step, another way to work on being more proactive could simply be writing down small goals for yourself. Start out by making daily goals, move on to weekly goals, monthly and then yearly.

Being proactive is about being driven and motivated. It’s also about wanting a better life for yourself. If there is an area of your life you don’t like, only you can change that. If the people in your life don’t approve of the decisions that are best for you, it might be time for new people in your life.

(For ways to eat healthier and for cheaper throughout the week, click here.)

#proactive #goals #selfreflection #motivation #life #plans #driven #virtues #procrastination