Proactive versus Reactive

21/11/13 16:34 Filed in: Management
There is no doubt that being proactive is more efficient than being reactive, so why does so much reactive activity persist?
Proactive activity is planned, allowing:
  • the reduction of overheads like context switching
  • the opportunity to ensure that resources are present when needed

So why do people insist on living reactively?

My theory is that being reactive delivers feelings of
  • importance; and,
  • being invaluable
which come about from coping and overcoming perceived adversity.

For the sake of productivity it is important to recognise that this psychological effect is leading away from the path of effectiveness and efficiency. Being proactive may not feel as good, but it is potentially far better.