Steven Covey's The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Steven Covey's The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People

In the book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey, lessons for personal change are presented in a very powerful and understandable way. The Habits can be applied to our own lives, our leadership of other people, a school or any other organization that can be run more effectively. However, before an application of these Habits can be made, a basic understanding of the material presented in the book must be obtained. Comparison with other leadership styles and theories can also clarify and reinforce this understanding as well. Finally, application can be made to a particular setting, a school.

Where a person or organization falls on a continuum from immaturity to maturity or from dependence to independence to interdependence is a key to determining its effectiveness. In developing effectiveness then a movement toward interdependence (maturity) must be made. This is similar to the Immaturity-Maturity Theory proposed by Argyris (Hersey 73-76). As we move along a continuum from immaturity to maturity, we become more independent, active, self-aware and in control of our own lives. This movement requires a change in our habits and change is usually difficult. If we are to become more effective people or increase the effectiveness of the organization we are a part of we must accept the reality of, “No pain, no gain.”

In order to facilitate the change process, Covey suggests that a focus on the character ethic is important. Many people today, in contrast, focus on the personality ethic. They focus on skills and techniques and their public image in dealing with people. They do what they have to do to look good in the public eye but often ...

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...ion, educational leaders are going to need to continue to work on changing the current paradigms of public education.

The entire idea behind the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People is that we must start where we are with who we are to become self-aware. Self-awareness, imagination, conscience and independent will allow us to creatively encounter our daily lives, situations, or others and effectively affect our lives. By taking control of our own lives and responding positively we can grow as people and live happier lives.

Works Cited

Covey, Stephen R. (1989). The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change. New York, New York: Fireside.

Hersey, P., Blanchard, K., & Johnson, D. (1996). Management of Organizational Behavior: Utilizing Human Resources (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.