How many on their deathbeds wished they'd spent more time at the office - or watching TV? The answer is, No one.
Stephen CoveyRead
We may find it convenient to live with the illusion that circumstances or other people are responsible for the quality of our lives, but the reality is that we are responsible-response-able-for our choices.
Interpretation
What this quote means
We often blame external factors for our lives, but ultimately we are responsible for our own choices.
Stephen Covey highlights the tendency of individuals to attribute their life's quality to external circumstances or the actions of others. In reality, he emphasizes that personal responsibility is key; we each hold the power to make choices that shape our lives, regardless of outside influences. Acknowledging this responsibility empowers us to take control and make positive changes.
Themes
ResponsibilityChoicesSelf-AwarenessEmpowermentAccountability
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech focused on personal growth.
More from Stephen Covey
All quotes →If you want to have a more pleasant, cooperative teenager, be a more understanding, empathic, consistent, loving parent. If you want to have more freedom, more latitude in your job, be a more responsible, a more helpful, a more contributing employee.
Stephen CoveyRead
Listen with your eyes for feelings.
Stephen CoveyRead
If we live out of our memory, we're tied to the past and to that which is finite. When we live out of our imagination, _x000D_ we're tied to that which is infinite.
Stephen CoveyRead
Synergy is the highest activity of life; it creates new untapped alternatives; it values and exploits the mental, emotional, and psychological differences between people.
Stephen CoveyRead
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.
Stephen CoveyRead
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