Self-agency

Description

Personal agency is the belief that we can control and shape our own lives. It has two components: Competence, the belief in oneself and an Internal Locus of Control, the belief that people in general are broadly able to control their life outcomes (as opposed to fate or the will of other, more powerful, people).

High scorers

High scorers have a strong sense of personal agency and belief in their ability to shape their life. They believe they have control over their actions, they take responsibility for their decisions, and they believe in their capability to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

Over the course of their life, this attitude generally contributes to professional success, resilience, coping skills, and psychological wellbeing. One caution for high scorers, however. Because they believe they are in charge of their own destiny, they also have a tendency to be particularly hard on themselves when things go wrong. Their first thought is “what could I have done different?” which can lead to a lot of self-criticism or regret. Over time they will develop the wisdom to see the things they have no control over and learn to accept them with grace.

Low scorers

Low scorers don’t have a strong belief in their ability to control their own destiny or shape their life.

Low scorers often perceive events and outcomes in their life as being beyond their control. They may feel that external factors, luck, or other people's actions have a significant influence on their circumstances.

This perspective can sometimes lead to feelings of helplessness or powerlessness. They may struggle with taking initiative and making independent decisions, often relying on others for guidance and validation.

While low scorers may encounter challenges, they have the capacity to learn and grow. Developing a greater sense of belief in their own abilities and taking small steps towards asserting their personal agency can help them navigate life's uncertainties with greater confidence.