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Getting over fear of taking the initiative

I'm currently in an internship and I'm being constantly told to take the initiative. What are some tips to doing this?
Also, consciously, I know that I am here to learn, that mistakes will happen and that I'm not going to get hated for asking too many questions. But whenever I am supposed to communicate to my higher-ups or I think about taking the initiative I feel nervous and it delays my actions. Any advice for getting over this so I can excel more during my time here? #initiative #career-development #help #how-to-overcome-shyness

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Mario’s Answer

Communication in the workplace can be scary at times. As an intern, you have no place to go but up. If groups feel intimidating, try to schedule brief one-on-one conversations. I am sure there are some folks you feel comfortable with. Think of yourself as an actor, if your role at work requires a more outgoing persona, evaluate how you do this in friendly environments and apply the same to work. Demonstrating initiative is also about timing, be observant, see how others work and jump in and offer to help if they seemed tasked. Don't take anything at work personally. Stay positive, most of us old folks at work don't have the vision of young people so keep focused.
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Mireya’s Answer

I use to have fear of stepping in and taking the firsts steps as a leader. I am currently in a program called Year Up and I learned a lot about myself while being here for half a year. I learned to put myself in a uncomfortable situation and trying to be comfortable with it or "get used to it". For example, I never liked being the person to tell someone what to do and how to make it better. Mind you I have always been very introverted since I was young. There was a lot of group projects I had to do and not a lot of people wanted to be the leader of the group because you were responsible to keep everyone organized and on track with the project. Even though I didn't like being a leader I still did it. The more I did it the more comfortable I was with it. Especially because I had the encouragement of my colleagues and it always felt good to have someone tell you, you are doing a very good job! Sometimes you just have to be okay with being uncomfortable because there is always going to be situations where you feel out of place. Just do it and you'll be surprised of the out comes. Don't shy away from opportunities. You won't know whats on the other side until you step in.


Best,

Mireya
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Shana’s Answer

The next time you are told that politely ask the person to provide you with some specific examples - ask “what could I have done differently?” Internships are for training and learning so a good internship supervisor will give feedback and coaching.

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Danny’s Answer

Allays try and figure things our for yourself first, and then approach others if you still cannot figure something out. They will respect the fact that you took initiative yourself first. When considering taking initiative, take a look around you and the work that has been assigned to you and try and determine if there is a better/more efficient way doing things. Don't change anything right away, outline a proposal and socialize it with your peers and then your manager, then if they are all okay with it then implement. This will gain you both respect and trust.

Good Luck!
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