I am a fan of the book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” written by the late, Stephen R. Covey. It’s been over 30 years since this book was first published and the “habits” still ring true today.
Let’s review Habit #1 – Be Proactive. This is a good time, while we are dealing with COVID-19, to look at proactivity vs. reactivity. Being proactive means taking responsibility for our attitudes and actions. Proactive people develop the ability to choose their responses to situations, making them more a product of their values and decisions than their moods or circumstances.
When we are proactive our language changes.
Reactive Language
There’s nothing I can do.
That’s just the way I am.
She makes me so mad
If only…
I can’t…
Proactive Language
Let’s look at our alternatives.
I can choose a different approach.
I control my own feelings.
I will.
I choose.
The following are a few questions you can ask yourself this month to see if you are practicing Habit 1.
1. Do I remain in control of my actions, even in highly emotional and difficult situations?
2. Do I focus efforts on things I can do something about rather than on things beyond my control?
3. Do I make the best of difficult situations?
Proactivity means we control circumstances versus reactivity where the circumstances control us. How proactive are you being during Covid-19?
Wishing you a fantastic month ahead; I hope that the articles in this month’s issue will inspire and motivate you. Don’t forget to take advantage of the links to connect further with our contributors.
