The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People was first published in 1989 by entrepreneur, author, and speaker Stephen Covey. The book presents a systematic approach to success, centered around the alignment of one’s character and purpose. First things first:

Prepare for a Paradigm Shift - a drastic change in your mindset. Understand that there also exists a contrary perspective, a viewpoint that may be different from your own but still valuable to your success. Individuals can see the same thing and yet differ from one another.

Secondly, reject the notion of scarcity. Learn to convey an Abundance Mentality - there are enough resources and successes to share with others. This principle leads to what Covey calls an Upward Spiral of growth, change, and constant improvement.



Without further ado, the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People:



1. BE PROACTIVE Take initiative in life by realizing that your decisions are the primary determining factor in your life. Take responsibility for your choices and the consequences that follow. Do your actions and goals align? 2. BEGIN WITH THE END IN MIND Use self discovery. Find those character values and life goals that are most important to you. Envision the ideal characteristics for each of the roles and relationships in your life. What can you do differently? 3. PUT FIRST THINGS FIRST You must develop yourself, first and foremost. Personally. Implement activities that aim to reach the second habit [above]. Rule two is the mental creation. Rule three is the physical creation. Take action. 4. THINK WIN-WIN Strive for mutually beneficial solutions or agreements in your interactions. Learn to value and respect others by cultivating interdependent relationships. A win for all is the best resolution. 5. SEEK FIRST TO UNDERSTAND, THEN TO BE UNDERSTOOD. Use empathic listening. Be genuinely interested in those around you. This will compel them to reciprocate the sentiments and be more open to your influence. Create a collaborative network. 6. SYNERGIZE Combine the strengths and skillsets of those in your network. Develop a positive framework, then share that shit with others. Set and achieve goals no one person could have done alone. They will follow. 7. SHARPEN THE SAW The final habit? Continuous improvement in all spheres of influence. Balance and renew your resources. Develop sustainable lifestyle changes - meditation, exercise, and good reading for mental renewal.

