The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Outline

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (1989) presents a principle-centred approach to personal and professional effectiveness. Stephen R. Covey explains how true success begins with character and moves from dependence to independence and interdependence. The seven habits, including being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, putting first things first, and seeking first to understand, offer a lasting framework for leadership, relationships, and personal growth.

• True success starts with character, so lasting effectiveness is built from the inside out rather than through surface techniques.
• Growth moves in stages, from dependence on others to independence, and then on to interdependence.
• Being proactive means taking responsibility for your own choices instead of waiting for circumstances to decide for you.
• Beginning with the end in mind and putting first things first keep your daily effort pointed at what matters most.
• Seeking first to understand others is the foundation for meaningful relationships and for leadership.

Stephen R. Covey (1932–2012) was an American educator, author, and leadership expert. He taught at Brigham Young University and co-founded the leadership training company FranklinCovey. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People became one of the most influential business books ever written, and his other books include Principle-Centered Leadership and The 8th Habit.