Being proactive is taking control of your life and work by planning ahead and acting before demands arise. We discuss the value of initiative, planning ahead and thinking strategically. Learn how to spot opportunities, prevent potential problems and make a meaningful contribution to the success of your business. Being proactive will make you stand out as a leader and ensure that you are always one step ahead in your work.

Students and young people will learn the basics of initiative in personal development, academic endeavours and career development, demonstrating how taking responsibility, problem solving, goal setting and effective time management can result in noteworthy achievements. Case studies of prominent people who are models of proactivity are included throughout to reinforce the material and provide useful advice on how to bypass common obstacles to proactive behaviour. The aim of this strategy is to provide young people with the motivation and resources they need to proactively choose their own future.