Something basic that can make a difference: Agency

Last week, I wrote about goal-setting, specifically, the danger of measuring success by outcomes we do not control. I argued that effort, when well directed, matters more than results we cannot govern.

However, many of us have been writing goals correctly for several years without ever getting started on them, talk more of getting our desired result. So this issue is about what makes that effort possible in the first place: agency.

Agency is the ability to make decisions and act independently.

I only came across the word itself in the last few years, but I have long recognised the trait in people and I have been intentional about cultivating it in myself. I tend to have many great ideas or plans that remain ideas or plans forever or for far longer than necessary. On the other hand, some people move so fast to implementation with seemingly little to no friction whatsoever. I always wondered why.

At first glance, agency sounds simple. Almost obvious. But when you consider how obedience and conformity are often rewarded by families, cultures, and institutions, it becomes clearer why agency is not as common as it should be. Many people grow up used to having their interests delayed, diluted, or dismissed. Over time, they learn to take the back seat in their own lives: going with the flow, moving cautiously, sometimes living almost apologetically. It’s the reason many young people attend universities or study courses that they have to interest in. Many of us remember the struggle to form an identity and gain independence we went through as teenagers, mostly with our parents. At that crucial stage, agency is often seen as rebellion.

And yet, no meaningful progress happens without agency. Every invention, breakthrough, or personal turning point begins with someone deciding to act, even when it disrupts the existing order.

That said, it would be unrealistic to pretend that everyone has equal freedom to exercise agency. Weak institutions, corruption, and power imbalances can severely limit people’s choices. In such environments, it can feel as though your life is shaped by people who do not care, with little room to push back.

Still, agency does not disappear entirely.

In this age of social media, it is also possible to passively outsource agency to trends and public opinion. This is very subtle but very dangerous.

This year, I want you to adopt a simple mantra: I can just do things.

You are responsible for the choices that move you closer to your goals (the same goals we spoke about in the last issue). You will receive advice, opinions, and warnings, but the final decision remains yours. Taking agency seriously means accepting that you have a role to play in the outcomes you receive, even when the system is imperfect.

No excuses for not getting your passport this year.

You can apply for the scholarship.

You can submit the application.

You can complete that course.

You can execute that idea/plan.

Strong effort requires agency. Without it, even the best goals remain ideas on paper.

I will keep returning to this theme throughout the year. I would love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences as we continue this conversation.

From Ojonugwa of Scholar ChitChat