proactive means taking ahead of that one can estimate....

To complete your thought, **proactive** means taking **action ahead
of time, based on what one can estimate, anticipate, or predict will
happen in the future.**

Here is a more polished way to complete your sentence:

> *"Proactive means taking **action ahead of time based on what one
can estimate or anticipate will happen, rather than waiting to react
after the event has occurred.**"*

### A Deeper Look at "Proactive"

To be proactive involves three main steps:

1. **Anticipating (Estimating):** Using data, experience, or intuition
to predict future needs, trends, or potential problems.

2. **Planning:** Deciding on a course of action before the situation
actually arises.

3. **Acting:** Taking initiative to prevent a problem or seize an
opportunity *before* you are forced to do so.

### Proactive vs. Reactive (An Example)

* **Reactive (Waiting):** You wait until your car breaks down on the
highway, and then you call a tow truck. 

* **Proactive (Estimating & Acting):** You estimate that your car
tires will wear out after 40,000 miles, so you proactively replace
them at 35,000 miles to avoid a blowout.more...