Autonomy

Definition: the state of existing or acting separately from others

ȯ-ˈtä-nə-mē, noun

In a sentence: “entrepreneurs work with a high degree of autonomy”

Synonyms: accord, free will, choice, self-determination, volition, will

Significance: When we operate from a state of autonomy it’s not easy to be swayed by outside influences. Examples of today’s outside influences might include, media outlets, talking heads, advertisements, parents, propaganda, TV shows, trends, newspapers, politics, etc. Self-actualizers possess an individualized code of ethics that isn’t dictated by society. Some of the most ethical and moral human beings in the population, are not governed by everyday convention. They sense what is right or wrong, good or bad, at an energetic level as opposed to a linear manner. They neither accept all, like a sheep, nor reject all, like a societal rebel without a cause. Autonomous, self-actualized, individuals look at situations, objectively, and make up their own minds. They tend to rely on the inner-self and the calm mind for life’s answers, big and small. In doing so, autonomous humanity learns to be resourceful, naturally spurning government, authority figures and society. The mindset tends to run along these lines: “Nobody has a better answer for what I need to do in life other than me.  I am a unique soul. I am my own person. I have lived my life. Nobody is walking in my shoes other than myself. I have felt every ounce of pain and every moment of happiness. I know my strengths and weaknesses. I know what makes me tick. I know my deepest fears. Thus, I have every right and every ability to decide matters for myself.”  And that they do! In the face of hardship, the self-actualized are self-contained and dependent on the inner self for answers: No blaming others. No reliance on others for pity, assistance and direction. Autonomy comes from one’s inner strength and will. Moreover, validation from others is extraneous because the ultimate validation comes from oneself (in accordance with a higher power).

Words to live by: “Autonomy leads to empowerment. We work hard to maintain a balance between collaboration and cooperation and independence.”-Bobby Kotick