Audiobook Review: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

I have completed listening to The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change (2004) by Stephen R. Covey. The 20 minute Forward by the author had me enthused that this book was going to be right in my wheelhouse. The book is great but not at all what I expected. This book is almost evangelical with powerful words and intent. The author promised a journey of self-development and personal growth that could result in me being a better spouse, parent, friend, co-worker ..... and he delivered! The book is intriguing, challenging and somewhat intimidating. Live your life with integrity. Integrity is the most fundamental source of personal worth. Personal peace comes when your life is in harmony with true principles and values. What are your personal values, mission and vision? Take ownership. Don't let emotions, impulses and pleasure-seeking subordinate your values. Apply principle-based actions. Be proactive. Make and keep promises. The chapter on your Emotional Bank Account might be the most meaningful and important thing that I have read this year. Habit 5: Seek First To Understand and Then to Be Understood is a crucial life skill which I needed to be reminded of. I need to practice and improve my empathic listening skills. Focus on your circle of influence, the things you can control. Build a better you! Don't blame others or circumstances. You have the freedom to choose how you act and respond. How do you want to be remembered when you have left this planet? Thank you Stephen R. Covey! I highly recommend this book. I wish that I had read it many years ago.