Developing Agency and Proactivity

Agency is the sense that you have control over your choices and actions, even in uncertain times. Proactivity is the willingness to take initiative, anticipate challenges, and shape outcomes. Together, they help you move from feeling stuck to feeling empowered, creating confidence in your career path.

What It Feels Like

Without agency and proactivity, you may notice:

• Emotional: frustration, helplessness, or resentment about circumstances
• Mental: indecision, overthinking, or reliance on others to direct your career
• Behavioural: passivity, avoidance of challenges, or reluctance to take risks
• Social: disengagement or lack of contribution in collaborative environments

Everyday Tools & Practical Tips

Steps to build agency and proactivity:

• Small actions: identify one step you can take today, however minor, to move forward.
• Set goals: break down career aspirations into achievable, short-term steps.
• Anticipate: consider possible challenges and plan responses in advance.
• Speak up: share ideas, ask questions, and contribute actively in discussions.
• Reframe: focus on what you can influence rather than what is outside your control.

Longer-Term Approaches

Sustaining proactivity in your career:

• Growth mindset: see setbacks as opportunities to adapt and learn.
• Networking: connect with colleagues and mentors who model proactive behaviours.
• Continuous learning: invest in training or development to expand options.
• Resilience: use reflection and mindfulness to manage uncertainty with confidence.
• Support: Wellbeing Solutions’ EAP offers confidential coaching to strengthen confidence and agency in career choices.

Moving Forward

Developing agency and proactivity is about taking ownership of your career path. By focusing on what you can control, acting with intention, and building resilience, you can feel more empowered and confident, even in times of uncertainty.