Motivation and Success - Learn the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Stephen Covey's 'The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People' is a very successful book filled with timeless ideas about the kind of attitudes that are common among individuals who exhibit the best and most efficient performances in work and life. It has been considered as a highly relevant piece of work and millions of people have put the principles to action, reaping the rewards as a result. Here are the 7 habits and what you should do to implement each one.

Be proactive.

Being proactive means acknowledging and accepting responsibility. It is only by doing this that you can begin taking action on your goals and making them a reality. By being proactive, an individual ceases to be just a part of the flow of life and work. He becomes an active participant, eager to implement changes and not being held down by his circumstances.


Begin with the end in mind.

Begin by formulating your own 'personal mission statement'. This will serve as your life's purpose and will be the guide with which you will act, think, speak and make decisions. For organizations, this habit begins with the creation of a company mission statement, which becomes more effective and meaningful if formulated and participated by everyone in the organization.


Put first things first.

Learn to prioritize everything within a given time frame and set criteria to achieve the long term goal you set. Learn to delegate and practice the art of proper time management.


Think Win/Win.

Go for solutions where the end result will be mutually beneficial to all parties, regardless of what view they choose to take. This will meet every member's expectations and needs, it also helps prevent or resolve conflicts.


Seek first to understand, then to be understood.

Before telling someone what to do, learn about the person and his situation. If you must give advice, do so only after you have established a rapport with that individual. Otherwise, whatever you offer will be rejected.


Synergize.

Work with teams and learn the art of problem solving. Implement decision making as a collaborative effort, a product of many individual's differences, strengths and contributions. Learn to look at innovation and use it to your advantage. The team is the lifeblood of the organization, so learn how to harness it.


Sharpen the saw.

You can’t progress in life if you don’t grow. Keep yourself sharp by ensuring that you are updated and that you have a good sense of self-renewal. Choose activities for what they can contribute to your growth as a person.

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