How many on their deathbeds wished they'd spent more time at the office - or watching TV? The answer is, No one.
Stephen CoveyRead
A cardinal principle of Total Quality escapes too many managers: you cannot continuously improve interdependent systems and processes until you progressively perfect interdependent, interpersonal relationships.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Improving teamwork is essential for enhancing overall quality in systems and processes.
Stephen Covey emphasizes the importance of interpersonal relationships in the context of Total Quality Management. He argues that before organizations can achieve continuous improvement in their systems and processes, they need to focus on perfecting their interpersonal relationships, highlighting that strong, cooperative relationships are the foundation for successful teamwork and organizational improvement.
Themes
QualityRelationshipsImprovementLeadershipTeamwork
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership workshop, to illustrate the importance of relationships in achieving quality work.
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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