Part I
Define initiative. What does it look like in action? Why do we prioritize it as a BLF Area of Focus?
Initiative is the ability to step up and make things happen. It is the responsibility involved in following through with plans and getting things done. Initiative is seen when ideas and plans happen and the brain-storming becomes reality. I believe that it is an area of focus in BLF because initiative is an extremely important aspect of a strong leader. Having the ability to get a task accomplished is impressive in any work setting, as discussed by the panelist. I enjoyed how they all agreed with one another that the size of the task didn't matter when taking an initiative, rather the execution.
Part II
Interview someone (anyone) on their experience in taking initiative. Ask questions to identify the situation, how they took initiative, and what their impact on that sitaution was. Write a brief summary of this interview.
I interviewed my mom on taking initiative, asking her what the most memorable experience was for her in initiative in her career. She worked in a bank in Carthage, MO, a very small town, where she had lived her entire life. After graduating she applied for a job in Kansas City, and receiving it required her to leave her life and friends and move to a large city for this job.
She told me she was incredibly nervous to move to a big city where she didn't know anyone; however, from that she has continued finding success in the bank including meeting her husband. Another time she took a big risk was when I was in grade school. She took initiative, accepting a position in Chicago. This required her to relocate to the Windy City for 5 months, flying home to visit us 3 weekends a month. She told me that saying yes to this opportunity allowed her to become more successful in the bank than she ever imagined and although it was difficult at the time, that initiative she took during both moves in her life expedited her success in her career.
Part III
What were your reactions to the exeriences of the Young Alumni present at the panel and reception? What did you learn from their stories? How might you integrate these into your life habits?
I really enjoyed hearing from the panelist because they were incredibly realistic and reassuring about finding jobs and the work force. They were not handed their dream job and had to struggle through a few jobs to find the one that they are at now. As I mentioned, I thought it was interesting how important they stressed being the one to take initiative with getting coffee or helping with small tasks. That was an incredibly realistic approach. They were also very adamant about establishing a strong network and having mentors to assist in decisions. I think that I will begin being more conscious of the small tasks that I do for others and make sure that I am grateful to have the opportunities and try harder to make connects out of these smaller interactions.
Part IV
Please tie Parts I-III of this blog together in a meaningful manner. What does all of this mean for your life?
In BLF there are a few things that we learn or skills that we focus on that sometimes I am unsure how this will tie in with my life or enhance my leadership. However, initiative is something that I really enjoy hearing about because it can be huge decisions, like my mom's, or it can be as small as getting someone coffee. And regardless you just work hard and take risks, network, and follow opportunities that come up and this all compiles into taking initiative in whatever aspect of life you are in. I like that this area of focus can blanket so many aspects of life. It can also be immediate or long term. Regardless of what I am doing with my life as a student or in 10 years when I am practicing Optometry, taking initiative can open doors that lead to better/ different opportunities.
