There has been an ongoing discussion focused on how to reach a level of personal freedom in life that helps you achieve your life goals. Being independent and practicing personal autonomy has advantages, like the freedom to answer to no one but yourself.
It encourages you to become self-aware while taking in the big picture. So, you’re not only focused on your needs but recognize that you’re part of a thriving community with responsibilities, privileges, and freedoms.
Are you interested in finding out how your autonomy can strengthen your ability to become independent? Then, keep reading!
What Is Personal Autonomy?
There are several ways to describe personal autonomy, from being free to follow your heart to have a sense of determination and self-endorsement. Yet, the simplest explanation is that autonomy is your ability to act on your interests and core values.
Having that drive to keep you on track makes it easier to live on your terms and according to your desires and personal beliefs instead of being goaded to conform to someone else’s.
Yet, at the same time, personal autonomy requires a high degree of responsibility. You make informed decisions, back them up and take ownership when something goes wrong.
It also means that you’ll manage yourself by taking action when needed. It’s all about getting things done consistently without needing anyone to remind you.
How Can Personal Autonomy Strengthen Your Ability to Be Independent?
Now that we know the definition of personal autonomy let’s look at ways it can help boost your independence.
- It Fosters Initiative
Having personal autonomy means trying new things. They don’t have to be big things; it can be trying a new coffee spot you’ve been eyeing for a couple of weeks or experimenting with a new workout routine.
Next, you’ll be able to tackle other tasks. For example, you can get a headstart on a work presentation to avoid dealing with a dreaded deadline looming overhead. Or, you could sign up for an online course to gain new skills or certifications.
This concept of initiative can go beyond work and career commitments. You can undertake a complicated DIY project. Or, you could volunteer a few hours a week at a local shelter, community garden, or soup kitchen. The initiative to act is a muscle that grows stronger as you use it. The more you use it, the stronger your sense will grow. This growth will boost your independence.
- It Helps You Get More Organized
Being organized isn’t limited to tidying up your living or work areas or alphabetizing your bookshelf. This is an excellent place to start! But gaining personal autonomy requires more.
To become independent, you want to organize and manage your time and money. In today’s digitized world, many life-saving apps can help you do just that.
If you are new to this, you can start by writing down everything you do during a typical day. Then, expand it to a week and eventually to an entire month. Next, schedule an estimate of how long each task or activity takes. Include chores, errands, appointments, birthday celebrations, or other upcoming events.
There are many ways to do this. Be willing to practice and experiment to learn which system works best for you. But an independent person will be able to master this. To be organized in this sense is to own your day and not let others control your time.
- It Causes You to Be Responsible
What does being responsible mean?
Responsibility is knowing what you must do, doing it on time, and taking credit for your hard work. You’re dependable, you honor your commitments, and you keep your word no matter what.
This is the bright side of responsibility. You feel like you are on top of your game, and everyone praises you.
Yet, being responsible is not always bright and cheery, especially when you must summon up the courage to hold yourself accountable instead of making excuses or blaming others when things don’t go as planned. Let’s be honest here; it can be easier said than done. But it can be done. The more you practice this, the stronger your sense of self becomes.
Admitting that you were wrong about something or failed to meet a deadline will cause you to feel better. You’ll be able to move on quickly and work towards fixing what needs your attention. This attitude slays cowardice. By being responsible, you are strengthening your independence and your integrity.
Why is Personal Autonomy So Important?
It’s no secret that people with a sense of control over their lives are happier and more successful. They are inwardly motivated and do not wallow in victim mode. They foster a growth mindset and develop a belief in their actions, regardless of the outcome. It doesn’t mean outside factors never influence them; ultimately, decisions and behavior are their own choice. They have a higher sense of well-being, better mental health, and function better socially. So, yeah, I would say this is very important.
People who lack autonomy are typically more controlled by what others think, say, or do. They might even find themselves adapting accordingly. They may struggle to make quality decisions or take action because they are unsure of others’ opinions or expectations.
If you struggle with autonomy, chances are you didn’t get here overnight. It might take time to overcome this barrier to living a fuller life. You may even need professional help to break this cycle and build your self-esteem. Whatever the case is, there is hope for you to become a stronger and more independent version of yourself.
So, as always,
Be well + prosper,
Elaine
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