This is a story about four people named: Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody:
“There was an important job to be done and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done!”
One can read this story and see different topics: responsibility, lack of communication, leadership, and so one. One topic I want to pull out of this is initiative. There is no initiator.
“Without initiative, leaders are simply workers in leadership positions.” Bo Bennett
Several sources lists qualities of an initiator. Some of those qualities are:
- They are the game changers and are seen as leaders.
- They take control of their life.
- They dismiss fear.
- They create opportunities for others.
- They inspire others to realize their potential.
- They are action oriented and result driven.
- They are more likely to reach their desired goal.
- They are creative.
- They ask why not.
Are YOU an initiator? Would you include additional qualities to the list? Are there any qualities listed you would not agree with? I WELCOME your comments.
“A leader must have initiative— the courage to make decisions and the willingness to risk failure.” John Wooden