AUTONOMY: What is it?

Have you ever wondered what it is like to have full and total control over your life? What would it look or feel like to have no one to tell you when to come or go? When to get out of bed or when to go to bed? When to do what or how to do it?

That is what autonomy looks and feels like. Total freedom and independence to do what you want to when and how you want to. Autonomy is to be the author and narrator of your life and driver of your own destiny. It is having full control and authority over everything you do, through God's grace and mercy, of course. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. - Philippians 4:13.

Autonomy at its core is being independent, self-directed, decisive, self-aware, collaborative and self-motivated.

Autonomy basic radical

Independence

When individuals are allowed full or even some degree of freedom and flexibility, especially in their work/career, that leads to autonomy on the job. When people experience autonomy in the workforce, they tend to get along much better with fewer disagreements. The reason being is that, they feel more valued, trusted and appreciated in their contribution to make things happen. This independence allows them to become more self-reliant; which in turn causes them to work harder to maintain their autonomy.

Bosses should realize this and lighten up. Micromanaging people lead to increased stress and more mistakes. I love this George S. Patton quote: "Don't tell people how to do things, tell them what to do and let them surprise you with their results." In other words, be more flexible in your approach. This however does not excuse you form properly training people. Employees want to feel trusted and worthy. Once properly trained, people only need be told what to do, not how to do it. With clear deadlines, resources, and sufficient responsibilities individuals are empowered to act ethically and usually do so without intimidation or the fear of reprimand.

Autonomy in the home can be demonstrated when children and spouses are involved in decision making and consulted for their opinion. This leads to a more relaxed, friendlier, co-operative and understanding environment. Thus, a less stressful home life. When people understand the reasoning behind certain decisions, they are more likely to uphold them.

For a better work/life balance, seek out independence in your job or career. More independence in the workplace often leads to less stress in the home and vice versa.

Self-directed

Autonomy is being self-directed. A person who is self-directed takes initiatives and is in control of his or her own emotions. Such person has their own voice and uses it when need be. S/he chooses and organizes his/her own activities and are not controlled by the masses. They are their own person and are not easily influenced or swayed by others beliefs or actions. They know who they are and act accordingly. Self-directed people create more trust, which alludes to more openness. Why? Because people feel valued around them. They are confident and charismatic.

We live in a free society. Employees should not be treated as paid slaves. We are all equal. People should be trusted to act ethically and treated with dignity and compassion.

Why should someone need to ask permission to take a washroom break at work? Or needs permission to attend to their children needs? Or his or her own medical needs? This type of behaviour is ludicrous! Personally, I believe in a "tell, don't ask" policy. We are all adults. We don't need permission from anyone to do anything. If one needs time off work for whatever reason, one should simply have to "give notice", not ask permission.

Decisiveness

Autonomy is having highly developed decision making skills. Meaning, having the freedom, power, quality and ability to make decisions quickly without second guessing yourself or deliberating over a decision for too long. It is about having a clear vision of the end result desire. How do you want to feel, or look? What experience are you seeking? Knowing what you want is the first step in getting what you want. That said, an adult should not be told what and how to think. They should be empowered to end controversy quickly with little or no hesitation.

We all have the power to think creatively and ingeniously. Believe in yourself and take charge of your life/career. Realize that even when you fail to make a decision, you made a decision not to make a decision. Knowing this, why not make the right decision, the one you are afraid of making. Be bold. Don't worry about what others might think of you or your decision. Be real with yourself. Don't let anyone decide for you. Make a decision and take full responsibility for the outcome, good or bad, win or lose. This is a good test to find out if people truly love you for you. If someone can’t respect your decision, maybe it is time to re-evaluate your relationship with that person or group.

Self-aware

Autonomy is being self-aware. Knowing yourself will help you to make decisions faster and better, which is a sign of being self-directed and independent. Self-awareness is about knowing your intrinsic values, strengths, and personality. Learn more about being more self-aware here. 

Collaborative

Autonomy is being collaborative. In Stephen Covey book: 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, habit number 6 is Synergy, the cousin of collaboration. Simply put, it means working together harmoniously for a common cause despite the differences. Autonomy therefore is the ability to work well in a team, be it 2 or ten thousand, while maintaining an open mind and respect for all. Given yourself the opportunity, you can do so more masterfully.

For increased performance and personal satisfaction, allow people their right of autonomy—their right to self-govern and stop the robotic madness. According to Stephen Covey, "valuing differences is what drives synergy." I will always maintain, our differences are our strengths, not weaknesses. They are what give life its spice. What make the garden most beautiful. Respect it. Admire it. Appreciate it. Include it. Don't ever bash it! To be autonomous, you must collaborate and synergize. And you thought autonomy meant working alone or by yourself.

Self-Motivated

Autonomy is being self-motivated. This to me is the right arm of autonomy. Because it speaks to the your own reasoning for doing what you do: Your desire to be a leader, to be driven by your intrinsic motives—Your own WHY. This is powerful. Not too many people can be self-motivated. They lack the ability to elicit their own enthusiasm and do what needs to be done. To be self-motivated requires tenacity and drive and determination. Do you have it within you to do what it takes? Can you stand out and be yourself? Can you let your voice be heard regardless of objections? What drives you? Knowing your why, what motivates you will give you the strength to find your how. Who said that?

• Are you a procrastinator? 
• Do you require constant reminder/supervision to complete a task? 

Give yourself a reason to want to do what needs to be done. Some people use treats, reward, intimidation, or even fear. These are strong indicator that you are NOT fully autonomous. If you need something other than the pleasure of getting something done, to get it done, are your really self-motivated?


So what is Autonomy? Autonomy is Taking charge, control, responsibility, and accountability of and for your life. It is the ability to make quick decisions that are morally just and fair for yourself and others. It is knowing your strengths and your values and respecting differences. Are you autonomous?




Until next time,
This is AggieStrong!
Be blessed...be bold...be strong...be you! V