Is agency closely related to self-confidence?
Most of the points on this list seemed related to that. Not the "don't work too hard" bit, but the rest seem in the same ballpark.
Most of the points on this list seemed related to that. Not the "don't work too hard" bit, but the rest seem in the same ballpark.
Agency is about self-awareness and realizing that you have a choice. Lack of agency means going along with the default, societal script or what is handed to you even if it is not a good option for you.
One example is dropping out of a university program, even if you are capable of graduating. There is a strong social expectation that you finish, but maybe you don't like it, or your time is better spent elsewhere. Agency is that realization that you can choose.
My self-confidence was in the trash during high school. In college I had a couple of experiences that gave me opportunities to learn to be confident.
The sense of difficulty is a sign of opportunity.