self-direct

verb

self-di·​rect ˌself-də-ˈrekt 

-dī-

self-directed; self-directing; self-directs

1

a

transitive : to direct or manage (something, such as one's work, study, or investments) for or by oneself

… the author discusses the basic elements and benefits of self-directing your retirement funds.

—Mark J. Kohler

… allowing her children to self-direct their education, letting them decide what to learn based on their interests.

—Katrina J. E. Milton

b

intransitive : to direct or guide oneself : to make choices for or by oneself

Something magical happens by letting kids self-direct. They're happy and moving and healthy.

—Grant Segall

2

transitive + intransitive : to serve as the director of something (such as a play) in which one also performs

… decided to self-direct two one-act plays in lieu of the fall musical.

—The Colchester (Vermont) Sun

With their new company, they are also able to self-direct and produce.

—Nicole S. Colson

self-directing

ˌself-də-ˈrek-tiŋ 

-dī-

adjective

self-directing investors

The purpose of 4-H is to help youth acquire knowledge, develop life skills, and form attitudes that will enable them to become self-directing, productive members of society.

—Northern Wyoming Daily News

self-direction

ˌself-də-ˈrek-shən 

-dī-

noun

Creating jobs that allow for self-direction, for independent thought and judgment, can make people more supportive and flexible at home.

—Adam Grant

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined at sense 1a