Quotes by Stephen Covey

Our struggle to put first things first can be characterized by the contrast between two powerful tools that direct us: the clock and the compass.  The clock represents our commitments, appointments, schedules, goals, activities -- what we do with, and how we manage our time.  The compass represents our vision, values, principles, mission, conscience, direction -- what we feel is important and how we lead our lives.  In an effort to close the gap between the clock and the compass in our lives, many of us turn to the field of "time management."

How different our lives are when we really know what is deeply important to us, and, keeping that picture in mind, we manage ourselves each day to be and do what really matters most.

Free your heart from hatred - forgive.
Free your mind from worries - most never happen.
Live simply and appreciate what you have.
Give more.
Expect less.   

Writing distills, crystallizes, and clarifies thought.

Live out of your imagination, not your history.

There are only two lasting bequests we can give our children... one is roots, the other wings.

You can't talk your way out of problems that  you behaved yourself into.

I believe the most important attribute for a leader is being principle-centered. Centering on principles that are universal and timeless provides a foundation and compass to guide every decision and every act. I’ve based my life’s work on promoting principles and teaching the power that resides in principle-centered leadership. Principles are not my invention; they are self-evident and are found throughout the world. If you look at all enduring philosophies, religions and thoughts, you will find principles such as integrity, compassion, trust, honesty, accountability and others at their core. I simply translated these principles into a framework of habits, which when followed with consistency and frequency transforms one’s character and allows one to earn the moral authority necessary for enduring leadership.

He who has a why can deal with any what or how.

Most people define greatness through wealth and popularity and position in the corner office. But what I call everyday greatness comes from character and contribution.