Stephen R Covey passed on today after he sustained
cycling-related injuries some time back. I believe many readers should be quite
familiar with this US motivational speaker who authored best sellers like “The
7 Habits of Highly Effective People” and “The 8th Habit”.
As a person who embraces continuous self improvement, I have
read these two best sellers and gleaned insights on some good practices Covey
has championed. Covey’s books are not the only ones I have read before; for
example, I have read classic self-management books authored by Carnegie as
well.
If fact, Carnegie is
the author whose books have really enlightened me when I first read his book
during secondary school days. I am a very introverted and somehow pessimistic
person during childhood days, his books enlightened me a lot on how to approach
life.
Now as an adult, I go on to read more on financial
management and do still need some fixes from time to time on positive thinking
as my career is not rosy due to management, environment, politics and
colleagues; well I should not be in “victim mode” and lament on my poor career
here. To quote from a good line from a good book I have picked up: “There is no
meaning except for the meaning we give”.
Staying motivated and energetic is easier said than done;
hence I always frame my everyday with gratitude and challenge to live every day
to its fullest!