initiative

1. The power or ability to begin or to follow through energetically with a plan or task; enterprise and determination.
2. A beginning or introductory step; an opening move: took the initiative in trying to solve the problem.
3. 1. The power or right to introduce a new legislative measure.
   2. The right and procedure by which citizens can propose a law by petition and ensure its submission to the electorate.

1. Of or relating to initiation.
2. Used to initiate; initiatory.

on (one's) own initiative

1. Without prompting or direction from others; on one's own.