Habit 5: Seek First To Understand, Then To Be Understood?

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My objective is to apply Stephen Covey’s, “Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood” in my personal and professional life. I have always been the type of person who wanted to their point across without listening or understanding the entire situation first. Covey (2013) stated that most people typically seek first to be understood and do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen to with the intent to reply (Covey, pp. 251). The “Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood” concept will change my perspective of trying to change others’ perspective without interpreting or understanding their logic or situation first by listening empathically, and then seek to be understood.

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I selected Covey’s, “Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood” concept because I am ready for a change from always being one sided. I want to understand and view the entire picture as a whole to fully gain the information needed to make a difference personally and professionally. I feel like the only time I am open for a change is when it is in favor of my own perspectives, especially at work. I want to be able to empathically listen to others’ ideas and understand those ideas to learn new things and build strong relationships. Covey (2013) mentioned to learn how listen empathically; one must listen …show more content…

Employees are constantly approaching me with questions or concerns on a daily basis. I usually shut them down because I do not care to listen or do not have time. Many of their issues could have been solved beforehand if I took the time to listen and understand what they were trying to express. When you listen with empathy to another person, you give that person psychological air. And after that vital need is met, you can the focus on influencing problem solving (Covey, pp.

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