But starting around the 1920s, the way people viewed success shifted to what Covey calls 'personality ethic' (where success is a function of personality, public image, attitudes, and behaviors). In earlier times, the foundation of success rested upon character ethic (things like integrity, humility, fidelity, temperance, courage, justice, patience, industry, simplicity, modesty, and the Golden Rule). In studying over 200 years of literature on the concept of 'success,' Covey identified a very important change in the way that humans have defined success over time. In order to change a given situation, we must change ourselves, and in order to change ourselves, we must be able to change our perceptions. The book opens with an explanation of how many individuals who have achieved a high degree of outward success still find themselves struggling with an inner need for developing personal effectiveness and growing healthy relationships with other people.Ĭovey believes the way we see the world is entirely based on our own perceptions. What habits do highly effective people have? It is written on Covey's belief that the way we see the world is entirely based on our own perceptions.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R.

The fire next time sparknotes