Kelly Barnes

A quick overview of the simple yet profound legacy that Dr. Stephen Covey left behind.

Habit #1 Be proactive

This is the ability to control one’s environment, rather than have it control you, as is so often the case. Self determination, choice, and the power to decide response to stimulus, conditions and circumstances.

Habit #2 Begin with the end in mind

Covey calls this the habit of personal leadership – leading oneself that is, towards what you consider your aims. By developing the habit of concentrating on relevant activities you will build a platform to avoid distractions and become more productive and successful.

Habit #3 Put first things first

Covey calls this the habit of personal management. This is about organizing & implementing activities in line with the aims established in the second habit. Covey says that habit 2 is the first or mental creation; habit 3 is the second or physical creation.

Habit #4 Think win-win

Covey calls this the habit of interpersonal leadership, necessary because
achievements are largely dependent on co-operative efforts with others. He says that win-win is based on the assumption that there is plenty for everyone, and that success follows a co-operative approach more naturally than the confrontation
of win-or-lose.

Habit #5 Seek first to understand and then to
be understood

One of the great maxims of the modern age. This is Covey’s habit of communication, and it’s extremely powerful. Covey helps to explain this in his simple analogy ‘diagnose before you prescribe’. Simple and effective, and essential for developing and maintaining positive relationships in all aspects of life.

Habit #6 Synergize

Covey says this is the habit of creative co-operation – the principle that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, which implicitly lays down the challenge to see the good and potential in the other person’s contribution.

Habit #7 Sharpen the Saw

This is the habit of self renewal, says Covey, and it necessarily surrounds all the other habits, enabling and encouraging them to happen and grow. Covey interprets the self into four parts: the spiritual, mental, physical and the social/emotional, which all need feeding and developing.