7 habits of Highly effective People, by Stephen R. Covey. Broadly recognised as one of the most influential books of its kind, few will not have heard of this influential best seller. In his seminal work, Stephen R. Covey presents a holistic, principle-centred approach to solving personal and professional problems. The book details seven habits which together build an integrated approach to your personal development.
Covey steps away from emphasising self-help techniques and practices. Instead, he asks questions about principles, character and a deeper awareness of both self and others.
Covey expresses his approach as 7 habits - habits which can build a character. Not just thought-provoking, Covey's book is packed with practical applications and tests, which we'll all find valuable in both our personal and professional lives. It's well worth adding this self-development classic to your collection and working through the 7 habits for yourself.
What are the 7 Habits?
Be Proactive.
Life doesn't just happen, whether intentionally or not,the decisions we make shape the life we live.
Begin With the End in Mind.
Do you know what you want to be/do? Imagine what it would be like. Make a conscious effort to visualise what you want to be and what you want to do in life.
Put First Things First.
Build balance into what you do. Ensure that what you want is worked out in practice. That you the things worth most to you first.
Think Win-Win.
Consistently seek mutual benefit in what you do. Cultivate an abundance mentality - there is more for everyone.
Seek First to Understand.
Communication is the most important skill in life. Seek to understand another person's view first, in order to best put your view forward. To communicate well you must listen first.
Synergize
Bring together ideas, other people and their views. Do this properly and the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.
Sharpen the Saw
Take time out to ensure you are refreshed, renewed and equipped to contribute and live life to the full.
7 Habits first came out in 1989. It's often quoted and referred to, so if you haven't read it you'll almost certainly have heard about it. Why not take time out to read this book, or to listen to the audio version (see our selection of Stephen Covey books below). Or, if you read the book some time ago, it may be time to re-read and re-discover. A good example of what Covey calls "sharpening the saw"!
Some Suggestions to Get the Most Out of This Book.
The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness
Did Covey forget or miss a habit from his best selling book "7 Habits"? Well not exactly. The eighth habit is more a way to use the 7 habits to create something of significance.
Covey believes there is a great yearning, in both individuals and organizations. A yearning to discover their true "voice," to matter, to make a difference, to find greatness. The 8th Habit can help you acquire a new mindset, and the tools, to help you find your voice and your passion. When you do that, you feel more fulfilled and engaged with the world around you and, consequently, with your role in that world. Our article Do What You Love echoes some of the emphasis and direction of "the 8th Habit". The 8th Habit is an ideal companion volume to the 7 habits, for anybody serious about making the most of their lives.
We have no hesitation in recommending 7 Habits of Highly effective People - a great resource for your personal development. You'll find several articles on this site based on many of Stephen Covey. Take a look at some Happy Manager pages which have used his wisdom:
Or look at our other recommended Stephen Covey books....
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