Autonomy is our ability to make choices and to control our lives rather than being influenced by someone else or told what to do. It is a sense of freedom and is a fundamental human need. Taken from ancient Greek, the word means self-legislation or self-governance. People have psychological needs for autonomy, and when these needs are fulfilled, we experience greater motivation and self-esteem.
Quality of life is our overall well-being, which includes our mental, physical, and emotional health. It is also strongly tied to our social health. Developing autonomy profoundly affects the quality of our lives and our well-being.
Autonomy involves making independent decisions that align with our values, beliefs, and goals. It gives us a sense of freedom and allows us to pursue who we want to be. Autonomy is more than just living according to who you truly are. It is about understanding and seizing opportunities for learning and growth, taking responsibility for your learning journey, and the freedom to decide what and how we learn. In following your interests, hobbies, and passions, you can embrace your creativity and ability to be innovative.
You are the greatest project you’ll ever work on. Restart. Reset. Refocus. As many times as you need. Just don’t give up.
Our journey toward autonomy starts at birth and is shaped by our attachments and relationships. Our early experiences laid the foundation for feeling secure and supported, which influences our ability to make independent decisions as an adult. Parenting styles influence the development of independence; for example, overly controlling parents can stifle the growth of independent decision-making skills.
Examples of autonomous behavior
What does autonomous behavior look like:
- Having established boundaries in a relationship to protect your time
- Determining your career based on what you want to do rather than social expectations
- Deciding how you will spend your free time, reading, time with family, or learning an instrument.
- Choosing how you dress, your fashion, and hairstyle
- Deciding your own religious, philosophical, or political beliefs based on your values.
- Deciding to live a healthy by eating a proper diet, having an exercise routine, and developing a healthy sleeping pattern.
- Being a non-conformist, not always doing what the crowd does, being your own person
- Being able to choose your projects on your job and build your skills without constant supervision.
External influences on autonomy
Pressures from different societal institutions require us to conform to rules and regulations. Some are in place for our safety. We may not often agree with them, but we would be penalized if we did not conform.
Governments’ legal protections can enhance autonomy by creating laws that protect individual rights and freedoms. Governments must balance the good of the whole against the good of the individual. Decisions that protect public welfare but still respect personal freedoms. Regulation and mandates, although sometimes necessary for public safety, can restrict personal autonomy. The pandemic was one imposition on public health. Do you wear a mask or get a vaccine?
If you live in a supportive community, encouragement and resources help you pursue your goals and make independent decisions. No matter what your community is, some cultural norms and values influence behavior. For example, when I moved from Los Angeles, California, to Hampton, Virginia, there was a cultural shock. It was like all the rules had been changed; different cultures and norms. Safe and secure communities allow you to feel confident in your environment, enabling you to pursue your goals.
The economy can dictate how you live and the quality of your life. A robust economy can provide vital access to resources such as education, healthcare, and housing, which empower people to make informed decisions and live independently. A strong economy influences job availability, wages, and overall financial stability.
Religious organizations can provide a sense of community, purpose, and spiritual guidance; and affect personal autonomy. Churches have specific beliefs and teachings, and members must follow these doctrines. In questioning these doctrines, a member may feel pressure to conform. The moral guidelines may include behavior such as dress, relationships, and lifestyle choices. Deviating from church teachings can lead to social stigma. So, fear of judgment may affect personal autonomy.
Social media has become a more substantial influence in people’s lives. We compare our thoughts to others as we see their ideas and beliefs broadcast. Influencers are getting rich by telling you how to dress, act, and believe. Celebrity endorsements of products that will give you everything you’ve ever needed in life. Beware, many are peddling their wares for money and fame. Think for yourself and decide what matters for you.
“It is not commercial success but originality and proof of autonomy which are admired.”
– Angela Phillips
How to develop autonomy
Autonomy is a set of skills and attitudes, such as the ability to critically think through a situation and to appreciate different viewpoints. It comes down to a sense of self-worth and self-respect. It involves having the freedom to choose and take responsibility for the consequences of your decisions. Fostering autonomy in your life means promoting empowerment and personal growth. Being autonomous means to gain control over oneself and one’s life. Developing more autonomy in your life can empower you and create fulfillment. Here are some steps to help you cultivate it:
Take time for self-reflection and understand your values, goals, and desires. Journaling or meditating can help clarify what truly matters to you.
We design our lives by the choices we make. Identify goals that align with your values, so your choices match your goals. Empowering yourself to follow your dreams and goals will help you find your individuality.
The foundation of autonomy is to make decisions independently. Step out of the environment and determine how you want to dress or how you will spend your free time. Practice will build your confidence in making more significant decisions.
Learning new skills can increase your confidence in managing situations independently. Take a class, start a new hobby, or learn a language or musical instrument.
Ask for help when needed. Autonomy is about being independent, but knowing when you need help is essential. Asking for advice can be a sound decision.
Developing your self-esteem is essential for autonomy. Acknowledge and accept that you are a unique individual and that you can take control of your decisions. However, remember there are things we cannot control outside of us, such as politics, how people react to us, and the weather. Focus on what you can control.
Financial stability creates independence and is an essential aspect of autonomy. Take control of your finances. Create a budget, keep funds in a savings account, and don’t spend more than you make. Financial debt takes much of your control out of your hands and can affect your well-being.
Self-awareness regarding emotions, wants, needs, and thoughts is essential for autonomous behavior. You need to know yourself well to make decisions without outside influences.
Locus of control refers to an individual’s perception of the underlying principle causes of events in their life. Or belief in whether you are in charge of your destiny vs. whether you think your fate is essentially out of your control.
Autonomy in Psychology—What It Means and How to Be More Autonomous, by Kendra Cherry, MSEd
Conclusion
“Not I, nor anyone else can travel that road for you. You must travel it by yourself. It is not far. It is within reach. Perhaps you have been on it since you were born and did not know. Perhaps it is everywhere – on water and land.”
– Walt Whitman
As with most aspects of enlightenment and personal growth, awareness is how you define yourself and navigate your daily life. How do you attain an authentic life? Think broadly about all areas of your life, work, recreation, and your relationships.
We all live within a social structure that includes family, friends, government, church, community, and economic conditions. Like every other aspect of our lives, autonomy is a balance between the people in our lives and our environment. We define ourselves by the choices we make. You can seek your individuality by defining your identity. Who do you want to be tomorrow? What choices do you need to take control of to become that person? When we feel autonomous, we are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and satisfied with our lives. This is because autonomy allows us to pursue activities and goals that are meaningful to us, promoting a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Early childhood experiences are foundational in shaping an individual ability to make independent decisions and act autonomously. Remember, developing autonomy is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and take it one step at a time. Is there a specific area where you’re looking to become more autonomous?
Autonomy and quality of life are deeply connected. We can enhance our well-being and lead more fulfilling lives by seeking autonomy. Whether making our own choices, pursuing meaningful goals, or being involved in our healthcare decisions, autonomy empowers us to live life on our terms. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember the importance of independence in shaping our quality of life and strive to create environments that support and respect this fundamental human need.
Recommended Reading
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, by Daniel H. Pink
Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, by Angela Duckworth
The Success Quotient: How to Capitalize on Your Own Hidden Formula, by C.K. Murray
Citations
Photo by Colton Sturgeon on Unsplash
Photo by Alysha Rosly on Unsplash