Let's get better together.

Sometimes, it takes a classic to bring us back to our center.

That place where everything balances out and we can see and appreciate the things that really matter.

Inspired by all the classic traditions being re-played during this season, I am reaching out and recommending a classic…

For those who know about this and understand why it’s a classic… would you believe me if I told you -MANY- have never heard of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" written by Stephen Covey?

I hope as you read this, you are one of the people shocked… thinking… how have you never heard of Covey?

It’s true though… while some of the concepts may seem familiar, when I speak about leadership in front of groups – it’s very common that people do not know who Covey is and have never heard of the book.

Here it goes… my attempt to introduce Stephen Covey to a new audience.

Published in 1989, the book is structured around seven habits that Covey argues are fundamental to personal and professional effectiveness.

Here's a brief overview of the habits with some of my own opinions and thoughts:

Be Proactive: Covey encourages readers to take initiative and take responsibility for their lives.

Being proactive means understanding that you are in control of your actions and reactions, and you have the power to shape your own destiny.

For me, this is staying far away from the victim mindset – no one can exercise their control or influence over me unless I let them.

Begin with the End in Mind: This habit is about having a clear vision of what you want to achieve in the long term.

Covey emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals and aligning your actions with your values and long-term objectives.

For me, this is a daily habit. Sometimes – many times a day I stop and ask myself, if what I am doing right now is contributing to my current set of goals, and my long-term goals.

If not. Stop, adjust, and get going again.

Put First Things First: Covey introduces the concept of time management and prioritization.

This habit focuses on identifying and focusing on the most important tasks rather than reacting to urgent but less significant matters.

I am willing to bet – if you kept track of how you spend your time. You cannot be honest and say you don’t get distracted by things that add no value to your overall happiness and goals.

Think Win-Win: Covey promotes a mindset of mutual benefit in interpersonal relationships.

He encourages seeking solutions that are beneficial for all parties involved, fostering a cooperative and collaborative approach to problem-solving.

While ALL the habits are important… this one stands out to me a bit more.

If you only worry about your own needs, you may win sometimes, but you won’t win enough.

If you focus on, how do you win and help others win, I can assure you – you win more.

Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood: Effective communication is a key aspect of this habit.

Covey emphasizes the importance of listening empathetically and understanding others before trying to make yourself understood.

Am I the only person who STRUGGLES with this one?

It’s so easy to slip into the mode of: “Can I tell you a story?” or the one upper situation?

You’re just trying to relate and share experiences, but sometime, we just need to listen to others and not worry about sharing our experience.

Synergize: This habit is about collaboration and teamwork.

Covey argues that by combining the strengths and perspectives of individuals, you can create solutions that are greater than the sum of their parts.

Two brains are better than one.

Two backs are stronger than one.

Sharpen the Saw: This final habit focuses on self-renewal and self-care.

Covey encourages readers to invest time and energy in activities that enhance physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

This is probably the habit most well known to many, it’s THE core value of self-development.

Sharpen the Saw: Literally the reason you are reading this now and why I wrote it.

Let’s get better together.