Big Bulb 's Key Ideas from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
by Stephen R. Covey

You’re not a product of your circumstances.

You’re a product of your choices.

Leadership starts with self-awareness and responsibility.

Effective people don’t wait to be acted upon—they choose their response.

“I am not a product of my circumstances. I am a product of my decisions.”

Great leaders live on purpose.

They define what matters most—values, mission, legacy—then lead with that clarity.

Ask: If I died today, what would I want people to say about me?

That vision should guide how you live and lead now.

It’s not about getting more done, it’s about getting the right things done.

Leaders operate from priority not urgency.

They schedule their lives around what matters, not just what screams the loudest.

Lead with principle, not pressure.

The first three habits are about self-mastery—the private victory.

Only after that can you lead others with strength and integrity.

You can’t pour from an empty cup.

Leadership flows from character.

There’s more than enough for everyone.

Effective leaders reject scarcity and competition when collaboration can create more value.

It’s not about you vs. them. It’s you and them.

Mutual benefit builds trust and lasting influence.

Most people listen to reply.

Leaders listen to understand.

Empathic listening builds trust, disarms conflict, and earns the right to speak with influence.

Connection comes before direction.

When people work together in true collaboration, the outcome is greater than the sum of its parts.

Great leaders value differences, harness strengths, and create environments where new ideas thrive.

Synergy is the fruit of humility and teamwork.

Leaders must renew themselves—body, mind, heart, and spirit.

Burnout doesn’t serve anyone.

Rest. Reflect. Recalibrate.

Continuous improvement fuels lasting leadership.

Leadership isn’t a role—it’s a way of being.

It’s about who you are, not just what you do.

Practice the habits.

Refine the character.

And your leadership will speak long after you do.