Usually, when school’s in session, I don’t do much reading outside of the recommended text. I don’t always read those either. But as part of this “getting my shit together” goal, I decided to take on some additional reading.
A classic of sorts, at least in the business world, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey has been a staple of management programs for the last 25 years. I’m actually surprised that I haven’t been required to read it before. I’m also drawn to the subtitle: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change. It’s a personal journey, not a professional one. Mr. Covey makes that very clear up front.
I have only read the preface and forward but I already see why so many people cite it as life changing. Not only does Mr. Covey use his faith as a guide, he seems very humble in his approach. To me, this makes him all the more credible.
I’ve already learned that the challenges I face personally include: “I want it now “, lack of life balance, and hunger to be understood. These are the things I struggle with daily, while the other challenges I can deal with much more easily. I’m keeping notes in the margins and highlighting parts that stick out to me. I’ve particularly liked this quote:
“Show me someone who is humble enough to accept and take responsibility for his or her circumstances and courageous enough to take whatever initiative is necessary to creatively work his or her way through or around these challenges, and I’ll show you the supreme power of choice.”
And that’s just from the forward.
Filed under: Me 
