Analysis Of Begin With The End In Mind By Steven Covey

Introduction and Summary of the book

In this book, Steven Covey presents an extensive approach to being successful in reaching goals through alignment of oneself. Covey calls this approach a “true north” principle. Steven Covey starts by introducing the idea of Paradigm Shift that prepares the audience for a change in state of mind. Coven asserts that, when presented with the same situation or the same thing, it is highly possible that two people would view that situation differently. After preparing the minds of the reader, Covey introduces his seven distinctive habits in an orderly manner. He discusses these habits in different chapters. These habits are represented by three broad imperatives including independence, interdependence, and continuous improvements.

The first three habits include “Be Proactive; Begin with the End in Mind, and Put First Things First” encircle movements from a reliance state to a state of autonomy. The first habit ”Be Proactive” suggest that readers should take strong initiative in life through realization that decisions are the key determining factor that reflects individuals effectiveness in life. The individual, therefore, should take responsibility for the choices and potential consequences of those choices. The second habit which states "Begin with the End in Mind" ascertain that individuals should self discover and clarify deeply their important characters, goals, objectives and values in their lives. In regards to this, individuals should be able to predict the ideal personalities for each of their various relationships and roles in life. The third habit “Put First Thing First” explains that individuals particularly managers should be able to manage their own personality. Additionally, Steven C...

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...ore, is extremely applicable and relevant to this course and the subject of Sociology.

Conclusion and Criticism of the book

This book provides an in-depth assessment of the factors affecting day-to-day lives of people in the society. That author has extensively covered every potential aspect necessary for individual’s development and growth. In addition, the author manages to air his views in a self explanatory and momentous manner. The book, therefore, is not only interesting to read, but also touches various aspects of life and society. The book, therefore, is extremely relevant for individual’s growth and development. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the book only focuses on individuals who are employed. unemployed individuals are somehow left out, as the book tends to focus more on work relationship and institutional factors than on personal factors.