Freedom
Autonomy
In Self-Determination Theory, autonomy refers to the experience of choice, agency, and self-direction. In RoleCraft ID, we use the term Freedom—not to imply independence without responsibility, but the ability to exercise judgment over how one contributes.
Freedom is not the absence of constraints. It is the presence of meaningful control.
People who rank Freedom highest do not resist structure itself—they resist misaligned control. When autonomy is honored, they bring creativity, ownership, and sustained energy. When it is constrained, they disengage, comply without commitment, or quietly burn out.
What Freedom Actually Is (and Is Not)
Freedom is:
Latitude over how work is done, not avoidance of accountability.
Trust in judgment rather than constant oversight.
The ability to adapt methods without asking permission for every deviation.
Ownership of decisions within clear boundaries.
Freedom is not:
Working alone.
Rejecting leadership.
Avoiding feedback.
Ignoring constraints or shared goals.
How to Know Freedom Is Your Primary Need
Freedom is likely your top Self-Determination priority if:
You feel most energized when trusted to figure things out your own way.
You become frustrated by micromanagement faster than by workload.
You comply outwardly but disengage internally when control increases.
You deliver your best work when outcomes are defined, but methods are open.
If Freedom is your top priority:
Design your work around outcomes, not instructions.
Negotiate how before negotiating how much.
Seek leaders who trust judgment, not just execution.
If Freedom is secondary:
Protect pockets of autonomy during critical work.
Accept structure—but insist on discretion where it matters.
If Freedom is last:
You can function well in structured systems—but still need respect for agency.
In Conclusion
Freedom is not rebellion.
It is ownership.
When autonomy is honored, your RoleCraftID does not just perform—it commits.
To learn how to apply Self-Determination Priorities to your Role and Craft, consult the RoleCraft ID manual.
