An Initiative

A bias for action and a preference for taking action. For example, a employee may do more than is required or expected in the job or look for new opportunities to improve performance or results.

• Shows persistence in taking action to overcome problems or obstacles and rejection by others. A resilient attitude of not giving up easily when things do not go as planned.

• Puts in extra effort or time as needed to solve problems or address current opportunities for immediate results.

World English Dictionary

— n

• the first step or action of a matter; commencing move: he took the initiative ; a peace initiative
• the right or power to begin or initiate something: he has the initiative
• the ability or attitude required to begin or initiate something
• government

• the right or power to introduce legislation, etc, in a legislative body
• the procedure by which citizens originate legislation, as in many American states and Switzerland

• on one's own initiative  without being prompted

— adj

• of or concerning initiation or serving to initiate; initiatory