Seven Habits Review

Introduction

This post is based on a summary of Stephen R. Covey’s The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People presents an "inside-out" approach to effectiveness that is centered on principles and character” ("The 7 Habits," 2010).The first section focuses on three major concepts concerning personal effectiveness. The following section focuses on the practical application of the three main concepts.

Major Concepts

Be Proactive

People that are proactive do not allow external conditions to determine their values ("The 7 Habits," 2010, p4). “Proactive people use their resourcefulness and initiative to find solutions rather than just reporting problems and waiting for other people to solve them” ("The 7 Habits," 2010). “Proactivity does not mean pushiness. Rather it means being value- driven, reading reality and knowing what is needed. Proactivity means anticipating possible problems and taking charge to prevent the problems” (English, 2004).

Put First Things First

Once the decision to be proactive has been made it is important to pin-point where to focus those efforts (“The 7 Habits,” 2010, p5). The basic concept of putting first things first is quoted as, “First Things First means developing a framework for prioritizing work aimed at long-term goals” (Belza, 2004). A key priority is doing what fits the organizations schedule and balancing production with the needs of those producing the product (“The 7 Habits” 2010, p 5)

Think Win/Win

Seeking agreements that are mutually beneficial to both parties is key to developing a Win/Win relationship (“The 7 Habits,” 2010, p6). Character is also a key foundation to solidifying any agreement. “Interacting with others from the foundation of character leads us to develop Win/Win relationships. Trust, or the emotional bank account, is the essence of Win/Win” (English, 2004).

Concept Application

Faith and Learning Integration

Scripture speaks of the importance of being proactive. “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is” (Ephesians 5:15-16, King James Version). In Scripture the ant is the best illustration of First Things First concept, “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.” (Proverbs 6:6-8, King James Version).

Comparison of Leadership and Management Functions

A manager is primarily focused on short term success while a leader is concerned with long term achievement (Satterlee, 2009, p 110). The Seven Habits introduced by Stephen Covey indicate a long process of development by using keywords such as change, develop, and spend time (“The 7 Habits,” 2010, p5). The manager is also satisfied with the status quo while the leader wants to be an originator (Satterlee, 2009, p 110). As quoted previously, proactive people are not the type to sit around and wait for things to get done. The Seven Habits are more prevalent in leaders based on the leadership characteristics provided in Dr. Satterlee’s text.

References

Belza, B. (2007). Interprofessional collaboration: Using the 7 habits of highly effective people. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 33(10), 3-3. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/204202478?accountid=12085

English, L. (2004). The 7 habits of highly effective information professionals, part 3 ; habit 1: Be proactive. DM Review,14(3), 22-22. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/214692281?accountid=12085

English, L. (2004). The 7 habits of highly effective information professionals, part 7 ; HABIT 4: THINK WIN/WIN (PART 2). DM Review, 14(9), 60-60. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/214694702?accountid=12085

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. (2010). Retrieved from http://www.quickmba.com/mgmt/7hab/

Satterlee, Anita. (2009). Organizational Management and Leadership: A Christian Perspective. Roanoke, VA: Synergistics, Inc.