Stephen Covey (1932 – 2012)
American author of the bestselling book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, as well as other books.
We are product of neither nature nor nurture; we are a product of choice, because there is always a space between stimulus and response. As we wisely exercise our power to choose based on principles, the space will become larger.
Often we are so busy with sawing that we forget to sharpen the saw..
There will be real happiness, peace of mind and balance, when living by heart and right-mindedly.
In the last analysis, what we are communicates far more eloquently than anything we say or do.
Live out of your imagination, not your history.
We present a dramatically different approach to time management. This is a principle-centered approach. It transcends the traditional prescriptions of faster, harder, smarter, and more. Rather than offering you another clock, this approach provides you with a compass — because more important than how fast you're going, is where you're headed.
Courage is not the absence of fear but the awareness that something else is more important.
Spiritual Intelligence represents our drive for meaning and connection with the infinite.
Integrity in the Moment of Choice
Quality of life depends on what happens in the space between stimulus and response.
Unless we exercise our power to choose wisely, our actions will be determined by conditions. Our ultimate freedom is the right and power to decide how anybody or anything outside ourselves will affect us.
Trust is the glue that holds everything together. It creates the environment in which all of the other elements — win-win stewardship agreements, self-directing individuals and teams, aligned structures and systems, and accountability — can flourish.
Our life is result of our choices.
Let natural consequences teach responsible behavior. One of the kindest things we can do is to let the natural or logical consequences of people's actions teach them responsible behavior. They may not like it or us, but popularity is a fickle standard by which to measure character development. Insisting on justice demands more true love, not less. We care enough for their growth and security to suffer their displeasure.
There are three constants in life…change, choice and principles.
Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.
Effective leadership is putting first things first. Effective management is discipline, carrying it out.
Prepare your mind and heart before you prepare your speech. What we say may be less important than how we say it.
Retire from your job but never from meaningful projects. If you want to live a long life, you need eustress, that is, a deep sense of meaning and contribution to worthy projects and causes, particularly your intergenerational family.
Self growth is tender; it's holy ground. There's no higher investment.