Book

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a classic work on self-development and leadership written by American consultant Stephen R. Covey and first published in 1989. It offers a principle-centred approach to personal and professional effectiveness and has become one of the most influential books of the 20th century in the field of management and leadership. It has sold over 40 million copies in more than 50 languages. Key facts Author: Stephen R. Covey Year of publication: 1989 Copies sold: over 40 million (as of 2020) Publisher: Simon & Schuster / FranklinCovey Genre: self-development, business literature Structure and content The book is divided into seven principles — ‘skills’ which, according to the author, form the path from dependence to independence and then to interdependence. Be proactive — take responsibility for your choices and reactions. Begin With the End in Mind — define your goals and values. Put First Things First — prioritise what is important over what is urgent. Think Win-Win — seek mutual benefit. Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood — the basis of empathetic interaction. Synergise — use differences for creative collaboration. Sharpen the Saw — continuous self-renewal in four areas: physical, mental, social and spiritual . Themes and influence Covey contrasted short-term ‘success techniques’ with timeless principles of character — fairness, honesty and dignity. His model became the basis for corporate and educational programmes, including the Leader in Me initiative. The book inspired politicians, leaders and educators around the world and was included in lists of the ‘most influential business books of the century.’