The 7 Habits Review

This week we studied “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, by Steven R. Covey. I have a hard time trying to find a favorite habit, but my first thought was that the first habit is my favorite, since nothing can be done without the first habit. My favorite habit is the first: Be Proactive. If we don’t make the choice to take action, rather than just react to situations in life, we’ll always be reactive. This puts us at a disadvantage, and not in a position of control. In order to be successful in life and in business, we must be in charge of ourselves, proactive in making decision to get where we plan to go. The other habits are excellent, also: Begin with the end in mind; First things first (prioritize); Think win/win; First seek to understand, then be understood; Create synergy. I think “First things first” is a habit I need to work on. I need to learn how to better prioritize my daily tasks to accomplish those things that are most important. I also really like the counsel to “First seek to understand, then be understood” as this advice is valuable in all relationship areas of our lives. We will be much more successful if we first understand the other person’s point of view and desires, then work together towards accomplishing shared goals, or working to merge goals together. The 7 Habits are an excellent guideline for how to be a successful person. Developing these habits will help me to be a better business person, community member, and family member. I like that there’s a progression in the habits. The first three habits are personal victories, and help with being able to move on to master the next three habits, which are public victories. And then there’s the seventh habit, to sharpen the saw. To make yourself better, to take care of yourself and your family. This is the ultimate place to be…master of yourself.