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Most Inspirational Book-The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People- Stephen Covey

The book centres on the 7 habits effective people displays. Below I have briefly explained my own interpretation:

Be Proactive: The ability to think and be one step ahead. 

Begin with the end in mind: Begin the day with clarity on what you want to achieve and make a plan to do so. 

Put first thing first: Whatever you are trying to achieve there is usually a logical order in achieving a more desirable outcome. For example, if you are writing a novel it’s a good idea to spend time planning.

Seek first to understand and then to be understood: Too many of us (including self) listen to respond and not to understand. Showing empathy and consideration allows for a 2 way communication.

Synergize: The belief here is we can achieve much more / have a better outcome when we work together as a team.

Sharpen the saw: Renewing yourself mentally, spiritually, physically- switching off, having a good work life balance, setting boundaries and looking after yourself to recharge your batteries.

How I applied the #7habits 

 The 7 habits framework highlighted that my end in mind was unclear- this was very true as I didn’t see a future with the organisation but I felt quite trapped. I also needed to increase my circle of influence to minimise my circle of concern. I thought about what the job brought me, which included a development opportunity on the back of this undesirable situation. It also highlighted what my passions are and what is my ideal working environment. Almost a year on I am pursuing my love for writing.

As with anything you have to invest time and effort in application- nothing will change if you just read a book and just do the same what you always done. Overall it can be quite provoking and ask some hard questions of how you are and where you want to be. It can get uncomfortable because it needs to get critical before it gets better. I want to close this by asking the question which this framework poses – what is or what will be your masterpiece?

The link below may inspire you: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsOvNTulcro


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