I have been very deeply influenced by this landmark book from Stefen Covey. In fact, I read it over and over again, till I got the hang of it. It was great to meet Stefen in person when he visited Delhi and arranged a seminar on his work.
People who follow the principles advocated in the 7 habits book seem to be happier, and more in control. It is not because they are lucky, but because they have have taken control of their own lives. Here are the seven habits described by Stefen:
Habit 1: Be Proactive
Take responsibility for whatever is happening in our life. No matter what is the situation, we have the ability to choose our response to it.
Habit 2: Begin with the end in Mind
Decide our mission in life by discovering our mission statement. This will have both the vision and the values. This tells us what are the most important things in our life.
Habit 3: First Things First
Devote maximum time to the most important things in our life (The first things). The definition of important comes from habit 2. If important tasks are taken care of proactively, they will never become urgent, and we will be more in control of our life and schedule.
Habit 4: Think win-win
Approach inter-personal situation with a win-win mindset. Do not try to achieve 'victory' at the cost of others.
Habit 5: Try to understand first, then seek to be understood
Have focus on listening and emphatic understanding of other's point of view before we put forward our own point.
Habit 6: Synergise
Try to work with others such that the outcome is much better than what it would be if we would have worked separately.
Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw
Countinuously make efforts to improve in all four dimensions of our life. Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual.
