Book Review: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Submitted by: Patrick D. Goonan: an experienced personal and professional development coach who brings an integral perspective to life and the world of business.

Patrick Goonan’s email: thecoach@meaningful-life.us

Patrick Goonan’s website: http://www.meaningful-life.us/

Book: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

URL of Resource: Amazon.com

Focus: Self development

Price: $9.57 (paperback)

Review: This is an excellent book that probably almost everyone has heard of. Millions of people have read it, but unfortunately many people don’t make the commitment to actually apply the habits in their everyday life. If they did, it’s a “can’t miss” success formula. However, it is not an “instant fix” formula that is the rub for many.
Dr. Covey writes well and holds the reader’s attention. His arguments are sound and it comes across that he practices what he preaches. The section on the basic life assumptions that are unconsciously adopted by people that keep them stuck is particularly useful. These fall under the general category of the psychology of “paradigm changing,” which is a revelation to a lot of readers.

I also like that the book sticks to seven pivotal habits and puts the spotlight on them. From these, most other productive habits logically follow as a consequence. In this sense, his formula is simple. However, the application of his ideas is more difficult.

I would recommend this book to anyone in business. It gives great, practical advice that one could start implementing immediately. I also recommend the book A BETTER WAY TO THINK ABOUT BUSINESS (Solomon). This title explores how personal integrity leads to corporate success.