The Achilles Team recently read through “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey. Last week we discussed the first habit, “Be Proactive”. This week, we’re taking a look at the second habit, “Begin with the End in Mind”. This habit is based on the principle that everything is created twice. The first is creativity by wisdom, and the second is practical creation. When we have a great idea, we use our imaginations and self-knowledge to create our idea, which gives us the opportunity to write a script or plan on how our idea or business will work. So, if you want to be successful, you must clearly identify what you are wanting to achieve. It’s all about connecting your uniqueness and strengths to create a physical and practical creation.
But how do we do this daily and practically? We need to begin each day, task or project with a clear vision and end in mind. Achilles team member, Stan Spaulding, comments, “no matter what aspect of leadership competencies, the foundational principle of ‘Begin with the End in Mind’ is always in the mix. Everything flows from a clarity of purpose, focus and why it matters. We can work together toward any outcome as long as we both have the same destination in mind. And when we approach people, relationships and tough conversations with a mutually understood end in mind, we can help each other stay on course to increase effectiveness.”
Beginning with the end in mind helps an individual succeed, a team succeed and a company succeed.
The danger of not beginning with the end in mind is that you will begin to be shaped by the people and influences around you. Without using your creativity and uniqueness to determine a practical goal, you will never reach the end goal you are striving for.
Next week, we will dive into the 3rd Habit, “Put First Things First”.
