Continuing The Stephen Cover 7 Habit Overview, Ch2 - By: peterbennett

Begin with the end in mind sounds simple and easy doesn't it?.

Just as you start to settle in you will be taken into the world of visualization and its power when shaping our destiny.

You find yourself at a funeral which after following the process turns out to be none other than yours. Give in in to this exercise, it is very powerful.

What is it that you would like the speakers to say about you? How will you be remembered?.

Amongst the speakers are people from your family, friends, community and work. What would they have to say about you?.

What kind of person were you, what sort of son, mother, grandparent, friend or work colleague? What has your character been like and how have you touched the lives of those around you?

Make sure you take notes. You will want the results of your thoughts clearly defined.
Your definition for success will be written right there in front of you.

It is unbelievably easy to get caught up in life in general and extremely easy to lose sight of what the pathway to our destination looks like.

Starting a journey without an end in mind is not a journey at all. Your end in mind is critical.

The chapter is based on the principle that "all things are created twice". There is always a creation made in the mind first and followed by a physical creation.

Think about it. Do you ever think of how to get to a new destination? Do you visulaize the route needed before taking off?? Do you consider the diet before grabbing that bar of chocolate?

The chapter flows into a real eye opening section regarding some of the differences between management and leadership.. It makes for very interesting reading.

Closely followed is a section referred to by Stephen Covey as the most effective way he knows to "Begin with the end in mind".

The "Personal Mission Statement".

Your statement will define who you want to be and what you need to do.
It takes a lot of though and some consideable effort as it is based totally on your personal values and principles.

Ultimately your statement will form the back bone to your decisions, both big and small. These decisions will no longer be dependent on your circumstances or emotions at the time.

Stephen Covey uses a terrific metaphor when describing the first 2 chapters.
Habit 1 says "You Are the Programmer" and Habit 2 says "Write the Program".

The second habit takes the direction of self awareness looking deeply into the way we think.
It also discusses the differences between the left and right side of the brain domination and what it means to us the grand scheme of things.

As if this chapter hasn't drained you of your emotional energy it delves into topics such as visualization, affirmation and the identification of your roles and goals.

The power in this chapter will come from your participation.Your pathway to your destiny and how you get there will be a real eye opener if you haven't done the funeral exercise before..

I remember when I first did this exercise and waht I can share with you ids that my priorities have never really been the same since. Enjoy.

About the Author

Stephen Covey has provided us with what some would call the "personal development" bible.
Universally read and applauded by many, the starting chapter entitled "Begin With The End In Mind is a very powerful chapter within this Stephen Covey masterpiece.
This book is personally used as my guide to where I'm going and how I intend to get there. It acts as the backbone to my business at MLM Stroke Of Fortune as we strive to develop leaders of the future. I invite you to come on over and say hello.

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