Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People is a popular framework for personal and workforce development built around character development for principles-based leadership. These seven habits are prevalent as they are applied to team leadership and collaboration to promote trust and respect, which define a diverse workplace. Seven habits are discussed below.
Be Proactive
Being proactive is about taking the initiative and responsibility for one’s actions and decisions. Leaders can inspire their teams by setting clear expectations. This can help team members feel empowered and motivated to take action and contribute to the team’s success.
Leaders can be proactive as they can establish a diversity and inclusion task force of members from different backgrounds, which can identify and address issues related to diversity and inclusion within the team.
Begin with the End in Mind
Beginning with the end in mind involves defining clear goals and objectives and aligning actions and decisions with these goals. Whatever you are out to achieve, start with the mind that you will not rest until it is completed.
Leaders can apply this habit by giving measurable goals for the team, communicating them effectively, and encouraging team members to align their actions with the team’s objectives.
Put First Things First
Putting things first involves prioritizing tasks and activities based on their importance and urgency. Leaders can use this habit by setting clear priorities and assigning tasks accordingly to promote efficiency and productivity. Put first things first ensures that the team members are focused on the important tasks and activities so they are achieved within a timeframe.
Think Win-Win
Thinking win-win involves looking for solutions that benefit everyone to promote a culture of collaboration and cooperation. Leaders can create a win-win environment by encouraging teamwork and inspiring team members to achieve common goals.
See First to Understand, Then to be Understood
Seeing first to understand, then to be understood, is all about listening actively and empathetically to others. When one listens empathetically, one can only understand opposite perspectives and needs. Leaders can promote this habit through effective communication, encouraging active listening, and a culture of understanding among workforce.
Synergize
Synergizing involves using the strengths and abilities of team members to achieve greater results, which would not be possible with individuals otherwise.
Leaders can employ this habit by promoting teamwork, encouraging collaboration and creativity, and asking the workforce to improve continuously. It helps create a team where everyone contributes according to their unique strengths and abilities.
Sharpen the Saw
Sharpening the saw is about investing in personal and professional development of the workforce. Leaders can help team members develop their skills and knowledge by providing opportunities for training and development. It builds a high-performing team that is adaptable and resilient.
Conclusion
A leader’s correct viewpoint and tools enable better decision-making, increased communication, and stronger connections among team members. The ability of a leader to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement, prioritize goals, and think win-win can help create a strong workplace.
