How does belief in the ability to enact change affect personal agency?

Belief in the ability to enact change significantly enhances an individual's belief in personal control over outcomes. When individuals have faith in their capacity to influence their circumstances, they are more likely to take proactive steps toward achieving their goals. This sense of agency empowers them to pursue opportunities and confront challenges, fostering resilience and perseverance in the face of setbacks.

Additionally, when individuals feel capable of initiating change, they are often more motivated to set ambitious goals and engage in behaviors that align with those goals. Such belief can lead to a more positive outlook on personal abilities and increases the likelihood of taking the initiative rather than feeling passive or helpless.

In contrast, other options reflect notions that can arise when one feels less empowered or lacks confidence in their ability to enact change. For instance, thoughts that suggest a restriction in action, diminishment of motivation, or complications in decision-making often correlate with skepticism about one’s ability to influence outcomes, rather than the empowerment that comes from believing one can make a difference.