How many on their deathbeds wished they'd spent more time at the office - or watching TV? The answer is, No one.
Stephen CoveyRead
In addition to self-awareness, imagination and conscience, it is the fourth human endowment - independent will - that really makes effective self-management possible. It is the ability to make decisions and choices and to act in accordance with them. It is the ability to act rather than to be acted upon, to proactively carry out the program we have developed through the other three endowments. Empowerment comes from learning how to use this great endowment in the decisions we make every day.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Independent will is essential for self-management and empowerment, enabling proactive decision-making.
This quote emphasizes the significance of independent will as a crucial component of effective self-management. It highlights that alongside self-awareness, imagination, and conscience, the ability to make and act upon decisions empowers individuals to take control of their lives rather than being passive recipients of circumstances. This proactive approach enables personal growth and meaningful engagement with one’s goals.
Themes
Independent WillSelf-ManagementDecision-MakingEmpowermentProactivity
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal development.
More from Stephen Covey
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Keep in mind that you are always saying "no" to something. If it isn't to the apparent and urgent things in your life, it is probably to the most fundamental, highly important things.
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