The Internet is an incredible repository of human knowledge. It can empower you to live freely and align your actions with your values. However, it also has the potential to foster unhealthy habits, like constant phone use or difficulty disconnecting from technology.
One of the Internet’s greatest strengths is its ability to provide explanations and clarity. To explore the concept of autonomy, we turned to the Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, established in 1995 to offer open access to scholarly, peer-reviewed content on key philosophical topics.
Here’s how it defines personal autonomy:
“Autonomy is an individual’s capacity for self-determination or self-governance. Personal autonomy is the capacity to decide for oneself and pursue a course of action in one’s life.”
In essence, autonomy means taking charge of your life—choosing your actions and decisions independently, rather than being directed by others. When you are autonomous, you chart your own course and live on your terms.
Ways to Embrace More Autonomy in Daily Life
For most of us, work is a non-negotiable part of life. Whether you’re an office worker reporting to a boss or a freelancer managing clients, you likely have responsibilities dictated by someone else. But this doesn’t mean you’re devoid of autonomy.
A person who values autonomy may not have the liberty to dictate her assignments, but she can still decide which job to take or who to work for. Autonomy, even in restrictive situations, is about recognizing and seizing the choices you can make.
Although you might not be able to eliminate work from your life entirely, you can choose the type of career you pursue, the time and effort you dedicate to it, and how it fits into your broader goals.
What Do You Do with Your Free Time?
Your leisure time is another area where autonomy plays a significant role. Do you default to societal norms during your downtime, or do you consciously decide how to spend it? For instance, do you instinctively scroll through your phone, join coworkers for an unhealthy meal, or engage in unbalanced relationships where your needs are ignored?
These scenarios highlight opportunities to exercise more autonomy. Choosing healthier, more intentional actions—like preparing a nutritious meal at home or nurturing meaningful relationships—can lead to greater fulfillment and self-governance.
Finding Opportunities for Autonomy
Each day presents countless chances to take control of your decisions. Instead of falling into habitual patterns or adhering to societal expectations, start evaluating where you can assert more independence. Whether it’s the way you approach work, how you spend your free time, or the relationships you cultivate, taking ownership of these choices allows you to design a life that reflects your values and priorities.