Analysis of Stephan R. Covey´s The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness

Stephen R. Covey first wrote the self-help book entitled, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, this book has since opened the eyes and hearts to millions of people throughout the world. After discovering the success that so many individuals encountered and still encountering, Dr. Covey decided to write the sequel entitled, The 8th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness. This habit is explained as, “Finding your voice, your calling, your soul’s code and inspire others to do the same.” What does that mean exactly and how would one implement that particular habit into the business world? It is simple really, that is if you know what it is that you are working towards, having an end in mind. With some direction, a foundation, and a purpose it is amazing what a single person can achieve in their life time. However, that single person needed to begin somewhere.

The beginning is our foundation or character, as described by Stephen R. Covey in the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, “although image, techniques, and skills can influence your success, the real source of lasting effectiveness lies in a strong character—the roots.” A strong and incorrigible foundation is essential in one’s growth process. As Dr. Covey has said, “We first make our habits, then our habits make us;” meaning, the benefits derived are from the amount of effort that one chooses to put forth, along with the manner that one approaches various scenarios, both personally and professionally. How one interacts with colleagues or anyone for that matter, will have some sort of repercussion attached. Leaving that interaction on a positive note will prove to be beneficial all around, versus, leaving the same scenario negatively will leave a poor impression in the reci...

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... of evolution in the 8th habit by encouraging us to live life with an open-mind and heart. Challenging us, the readers, to look beyond what is in front of our faces. Showing and explaining the readers that it is possible to succeed in both, personal and professional lives. Dr. Covey teaches people what it takes to be a leader and the roles that an effective leader will display and encourage from their daily interactions. An effective leader will understand the need to establish a common purpose, giving the sense of direction for other to build upon in their way. Dr. Covey also illustrates how the basics are an essential to continual growth. Reiterating how the 7 habits helps build upon the 8th habit. Stephen Covey believes that, we as a human race are capable of so much more than we ever anticipated if we just open up our minds and hearts to one another.