take the initiative

Idioms  

1. Begin a task or plan of action, as in The boss was on vacation when they ran out of materials, so Julie took the initiative and ordered more. This term uses initiative in the sense of “the power to originate something,” a usage dating from the late 1700s.

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Example Sentences

Take the initiative and say hello to a friend who is still a stranger you haven’t met.

From Salon • Nov. 22, 2023

"Take the initiative to show how you contribute to the bottom line. It's hard to argue against a raise when you have the numbers and track record to back it up," she says.

From US News • Jan. 13, 2016

Take the initiative to organize gatherings that are low cost or free: hikes, reduced-rate museum shows, concerts in the park, potluck spaghetti dinners.

From Slate • May 23, 2013