Seven Habits of Highly Effective People (2)

Stephen R. Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is one of those books everyone’s heard of, many people own, and far fewer have truly applied. That’s a shame—because beneath the big ideas is a very practical framework for working better, leading better, and living with less friction.

1/21/20261 min read

Begin with the End in Mind: Decide What “Success” Means First

Begin with the End in Mind: Decide What “Success” Means First

2. Begin with the End in Mind

Decide First What 'Success' Means for you

Most people are unclear about this. Covey’s second habit is about defining where you’re going - before you start moving.

This applies beyond life goals. It’s relevant to:

Projects
Careers
Meetings
Even conversations

Practical application:

Before starting something, ask yourself one question: “What does a good outcome look like?”

Write it down. If you can’t describe the end, you’ll waste your time wandering toward it without a clear direction.