Definitions of proactive as derived from the dictionaries are:

Acting in advance to deal with an expected difficulty; anticipatory.

Relating to, caused by, or being interference between previous learning and the recall or performance of later learning

Acting in anticipation of future problems, needs, or changes.

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On July 28th 2000 I hosted a television show where the topic was Northridge Kiwanis. My guest was a friend of mine from Northridge Kiwanis. We discussed the reasons why we both joined the organization and I was very impressed why he joined.

He stated that most people question why "they" should do something instead of "I" should do something. He said that this organization offers each individual a key toward expressing the desire to achieve something in a collective way.

The expression that nothing gets achieved until one decides to "step up to the plate" And do something is correct. If everyone just talks about doing something, nothing gets accomplished.

Success depends upon action. Most people are not proactive. As society progresses and the ability to obtain the items we desire becomes easier, being proactive starts to disappear.

Starting from the late 1800's the majority of people that came to the United States had to make adjustments to the new society and new ways of living.

Many family members were used to running a small business where the adults of the family would encourage their children to learn the family business.

With the start of the Industrial Revolution people were encouraged to move from the rural areas of America to the cities and toward companies that promised jobs, good pay, a chance to advance and above all loyalty.

The drift toward these companies took away self expression, family cohesiveness, and the ability to solve business and financial problems and the ability of being proactive.

This is expressed in the way businesses tell --- how much a person is to be paid, --- when they can go on vacation, --- what kind of work they will perform, --- where they will work, --- and when they will work.

The incentive to be one's own person and to make decisions is now in the hands of someone else.

The company has the final say when it comes for--- promotion, --- switching schedules, --- telling you when you will retire --- or being released from downsizing.

If anyone wants to get ahead in the companies they "must not buck" the politics of company management.

I have asked people if they expressed the percentage or dollar amount desired when asking for a salary raise. The majority just "let things happen to them." They felt that they didn't want to "buck" their boss because he controls their jobs.

Learn To Control -

When one wants to become proactive, start slowly. It is a bit scary at first because you are not sure what will happen. What is the worst case scenario when asking for a raise? You don't get what you think you should get. The Boss said NO.

Of course if you didn't ask for what you want you can't blame anyone but yourself.

Without asking, you let things happen to you. If you feel that you should get a bigger raise, maybe it is time to have your resume handy. There are always organizations that are willing to pay you what you desire. Company organizations have lost their loyalty toward their employees. If you feel that you should be getting promotions, increases in salaries etc, you better start something.

It is absolutely amazing when someone becomes proactive. The ability to achieve more and to demand and get what you desire seems to just happen. It is as if you "stepped out of yourself" and observed and controlled the world around you. You become broader in your approach to achieving your goals. Learn to control instead of being controlled.

Being proactive requires the other keys to success, Education, Planning, Decisions and Passion. LOTS of LUCK

Please let me know by e-mail your thoughts. I will gladly respond.