Archive for January 22nd, 2010

Author: Stephen R. Covey

This book was picked up somehow by chance at Harris Bookstore’s sale. It was late and the store was about to close. Since I was already there, I was not about to leave without buying a book. The title caught my eye “The Courage to Change”. I am usually tremendously resistant to change, therefore that seemed like the perfect book.

It does not matter whether you have read “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” from cover to cover, you can still keep up with this book as Covey brings attention to the Habits (and how they were used) at the end of each short story. The short and inspirational stories are shared effectively in sections, namely the Individual, Family, Community & Education and lastly the Workplace.

The very first story that made me shed tears was “My First Broken Heart” in the “Raising Teens” section, whereby a man recalls vividly how his father wept together with him on the night of his first romantic heartbreak many years ago, and recently how he paused to remember fondly that particular night before closing the lid on his father’s casket. After the story, Covey did a wrap up and emphasized the value of profound emotional experiences that lasts a lifetime, and the fact that such experiences give powerful scripts to the next generation.

Another persuasive take-home point from this book is the highlight of Habit 3: Put First Things First. Sometimes we can’t help but grumble about lack of time, yet Covey states it isn’t a matter of time; in fact, it’s a matter of “prioritization and commitment”. But first, you need to decide what matters most. The most important thing is always to “keep the main thing the main thing”.

With that said, it is perfectly fine to read this book before deciding to pick up “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”. Who knows, you might feel instigated to let the 7 Habits govern your life and perhaps next time, it is your turn to share your inspirational story.