Stephen Covey

Principles are our summary of their public statements.

• Prioritize Direction Over Speed

  Strategy

  Focusing on where one is headed is more important than how fast one is moving. A compass, representing principles and vision, is a better tool for success than a clock.

  Supporting quotes

  • “Live out of your imagination, not your history.”

    “Effective leadership is putting first things first. Effective management is discipline, carrying it out.”

    “Remember, to learn and not to do is really not to learn. To know and not to do is really not to know.”

• Base Values on Universal Principles

  Integrity

  Personal values should be aligned with objective, natural laws like honesty and integrity. While values are subjective, principles are universal and govern the long-term consequences of actions.

  Supporting quotes

  • “Live out of your imagination, not your history.”

    “Effective leadership is putting first things first. Effective management is discipline, carrying it out.”

    “Remember, to learn and not to do is really not to learn. To know and not to do is really not to know.”

• The Character Ethic

  Mindset

  Success should be built on aligning internal values with universal, timeless principles rather than just focusing on personality or public image.

  Source Wikipedia: Stephen Covey  (opens in a new tab)

• Seek the Third Alternative

  Decisions

  Instead of compromising between two opposing views, aim to create a new solution that is better than either original idea.

  Source Wikipedia: Stephen Covey  (opens in a new tab)