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The Role of Empowerment on the Performance of People At Work Environment
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Developing personal empowerment usually involves making some fundamental changes in life, which is not
always an easy process. The degree of change required will differ from person to person, depending on the indi-
vidual starting point.
2.1. Dimensions of personal empoverment
The following ‘
dimensions of personal empowerment
’ are based on the belief that the greater the range of coping
responses an individual develops, the greater their chance of coping effectively with diverse life situations. These
dimensions are:
2.1.1. Self-Awareness
Self-awareness involves understanding the individual character and how the people are likely to respond to situ-
ations. This enables the people to build on their positive qualities and be aware of any negative traits which may
reduce their effectiveness. Self-aware people make conscious decisions to enhance their lives whenever possible,
learning from past experiences.
2.1.2. Values
Values are opinions or beliefs that are important to people but of which they are not always aware. They can be any
kind of belief or perceived obligation, anything they prefer and for any reason. The reasons they may prefer one
thing over another, or choose one course of action over another, may not always be obvious or known; there may
be no apparent reason for their values. Nevertheless their values are important to them as individuals. In order to
be self-aware it is necessary to be aware of the values, to critically examine them and to accept that the values may
be different from those of others.
2.1.3. Skills
An individual’s skills are the main resource which enables them to achieve their desired goals. Skills can be gained
through experience, practice, education and training. It is only by developing such skills that individual values can
be translated into action.
2.1.4. Information
Knowledge or information is necessary in the development of self-awareness and skills. It is an essential skill in
itself to know where to find appropriate information. Without information, the choices open to people are lim-
ited, both in their personal and working lives. The internet has provided an easy way for everybody to access huge
amounts of information very quickly and easily. The problem is then centred around the quality of the informa-
tion found, and the skill set is concerned with finding accurate and reliable information.
Setting goals is a means by which an individual can take charge of his/her life. The process of setting a goal involves
people thinking about their values and the direction that they would like their lives to follow. Choices are made
through reflection followed by action. Goals should always be both specific and realistic. Setting personal goals
gives us a sense of direction in life, this direction is essential to personal empowerment.
Personal empowerment is about looking at who you are and becoming more aware of yourself as a unique indi-
vidual.
Personal empowerment involves developing the confidence and strength to set realistic goals and fulfil your
potential. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses and a range of skills that are used in everyday situations, but all
too often people remain unaware of, or undervalue, their true abilities.
A person aiming for empowerment is able to take control of his/her life by making positive choices and setting
goals. Developing self-awareness, an understanding of strengths and weaknesses - knowing the limitations is key
to personal empowerment.
Taking steps to set and achieve goals - both short and longer-term and developing new skills, acts to increase
confidence which, in itself, is essential to self-empowerment.