What Is Another Way to Say “Self-Determination”?

Looking for synonyms for self-determination? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say self-determination.

  • Autonomy
  • Independence
  • Self-rule
  • Self-sufficiency
  • Free will
  • Self-reliance
  • Self-governance
  • Personal initiative
  • Self-guidance
  • Individualism
  • Self-direction
  • Self-management
  • Sovereignty
  • Freedom
  • Agency
  • Empowerment
  • Liberty
  • Self-control
  • Self-regulation
  • Self-administration

Want to learn how to say self-determination professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Autonomy

Appropriate Use: For the ability to make decisions independently.
Example: “The new manager was given greater autonomy in leading the project.”

2. Independence

Appropriate Use: The ability to operate or act without being controlled by others.
Example: “Her independence in decision-making is highly valued in the company.”

3. Self-Rule

Appropriate Use: Governing oneself without external control.
Example: “The department has been successful due to its culture of self-rule and responsibility.”

4. Self-Sufficiency

Appropriate Use: The ability to fulfill one’s needs without external assistance.
Example: “The team prides itself on self-sufficiency and innovative problem-solving.”

5. Free Will

Appropriate Use: The power of making choices that are neither determined by natural causality nor predestined.
Example: “The company culture encourages free will in pursuing creative solutions.”

6. Self-Reliance

Appropriate Use: Relying on one’s own capabilities and resources.
Example: “Self-reliance is a key trait we look for in remote workers.”

7. Self-Governance

Appropriate Use: The ability to control and manage one’s own affairs.
Example: “Our remote teams operate effectively due to strong self-governance.”

8. Personal Initiative

Appropriate Use: Taking action independently and proactively.
Example: “Personal initiative is often the difference between good and great performance.”

9. Self-Guidance

Appropriate Use: Directing oneself based on personal judgment and principles.
Example: “She demonstrates self-guidance in her approach to career development.”

10. Individualism

Appropriate Use: The habit or principle of being independent and self-reliant.
Example: “The company’s ethos of individualism fosters diverse and creative approaches.”

11. Self-Direction

Appropriate Use: The ability to direct oneself towards achieving objectives.
Example: “Self-direction is essential for employees in a flexible working environment.”

12. Self-Management

Appropriate Use: Managing oneself, especially one’s time and work.
Example: “Effective self-management is crucial for success in remote positions.”

13. Sovereignty

Appropriate Use: Possessing supreme or ultimate power and control over oneself.
Example: “Professional sovereignty is important for those in leadership positions.”

14. Freedom

Appropriate Use: The state of being free and able to act without hindrance or restraint.
Example: “Employees value the freedom to innovate and experiment with new ideas.”

15. Agency

Appropriate Use: The ability to act independently and make free choices.
Example: “The new policy provides more agency to team members in choosing their projects.”

16. Empowerment

Appropriate Use: The process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life.
Example: “The training program focuses on empowerment and personal growth.”

17. Liberty

Appropriate Use: The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions.
Example: “Liberty in workplace decisions has led to a more dynamic and responsive business model.”

18. Self-Control

Appropriate Use: The ability to control one’s emotions and desires, especially in difficult situations.
Example: “High-pressure roles demand a great deal of self-control and discipline.”

19. Self-Regulation

Appropriate Use: The ability to monitor and control one’s own behavior, emotions, or thoughts.
Example: “Self-regulation skills are essential for managing work-life balance.”

20. Self-Administration

Appropriate Use: Managing or governing oneself without outside interference.
Example: “The success of the program is due to its model of self-administration.”

Linda Brown