

But more than what they do once in a while, it's what they do consistently that counts. Covey also explains that to make learning a habit, we should focus on four key areas:įrom the way they deal with obstacles to the manner that they approach accomplishing their goals, highly effective people certainly have distinguishing qualities. Whether it's reading books, listening to podcasts, taking up classes, or attending workshops, we should be devoted to improving our number one asset: ourselves.Įspecially with the ever-increasing demands we face today, it's only through self-improvement, self-renewal, or self-care can we become our most productive and effective selves. In any industry, endeavor, or situation, it's necessary for us to commit to continuous learning. To sharpen the saw is the 7th and last habit that Covey talks about. "Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe." - Abraham Lincoln (unconfirmed) If you are writing a blog post, what message are you trying to convey to the reader? If you're preparing for an interview, what impression would you like to leave with your interviewer? If you're working on a project, what outcome are you working towards? This concept can also be applied to other more specific areas. After, map out the regular activities or habits you should be devoting time and energy to in order to help you reach those goals. It's important to evaluate your situation and set goals. He says reality is first created in our minds. We need to imagine ourselves as our most fulfilled and happiest selves and align that vision with what we do daily. You think of the person who has passed and how he is remembered.ĭid others become happy by being with him?Īnd then you stand up and walk over to look inside the coffin, only to see your face and realize this is your funeral.Ĭovey illustrates this story as a wake-up call to those of us who lack direction or purpose. They don’t rely on others’ opinions or the external circumstance. Instead of automatically reacting to outside stimuli, people who are proactive think of the options available and choose how they would respond. On the other hand, to be proactive means to take initiative and to exercise control over our thoughts, emotions, and actions. “I wasn’t given that opportunity like he was”

We see this in others often - they use their “scarce” resources, “imperfect” upbringing, and “lack of” opportunity as excuses, and then play the victim the rest of their lives. To put these two simple words into consistent action would already generate a multitude of benefits that many people don’t realize or take advantage of. If you ask me which of the 7 habits is the most important, my opinion would be this first one: be proactive. Here are my 3 Takeaways, in the form of three of the seven habits: Covey explains how habits set highly effective people apart. In the best-selling book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen R. Is it how they manage their day? Their way of thinking? How they approach problems? What qualities differentiate highly effective people?
