Habit 1: Be Proactive- You're in charge. You oversee yourself, take the initiative, follow directions, and control your mood. Here are "I" statements for being proactive:
- I'm a responsible person.
- I take initiative.
- I choose my actions and attitudes.
- I don't blame others when I make mistakes.
Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind- Have a plan. You will need to focus on two main areas: planning and goal setting. Here are "I" statements for beginning with the end in mind:
- I make plans in advance.
- I set goals for myself.
- I think about how my choice will impact my future.
- I do meaningful work.
Habit 3: Put First Things First- work first, then play. Prioritize what is important and do them first, then you can take care of the less important items or have playtime. Things that are time-sensitive must be done first. Here are "I" statements for putting first things first:
- I make a schedule and dedicate time to my Big Rocks each day.
- I'm organized.
- I stay focused.
- I try to minimize distractions and regroup when I get off task.
Habit 4: Think Win-Win- Everyone can win. It's not you or me-it's both of us. It's a belief that there are enough good things for everyone if we work together to consider solutions. Here are "I" statements for thinking win-win:
- I look for solutions to problems.
- I consider the feelings and needs of others.
- I am kind and cooperative when I work with others.
Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood- Listen before you talk. Truly listen with your heart and understand what the speaker is saying before trying to have them understand you. This is actively listening and focusing on what is said. Here are "I" statements for seeking first to understand, then be understood:
- I listen to other people's feelings and ideas without interrupting.
- I use my eyes and ears when listening.
- I try to understand other people's experiences.
- I am confident when I share my ideas.
- I don't make assumptions about others.
Habit 6: Synergize- Together is better. When two or more people work together, the combined effort surpasses what they could have achieved on their own. Here are "I" statements for synergize:
- I get along well with others.
- I value the strength of others and allow myself to learn from them.
- I ask for other people's ideas.
- I know we can accomplish more as a team than I can on my own.
Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw- Balance feels best. Take care of the greatest asset you have yourself! Finding balance in all four areas of your life-social, emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual. Here are "I" statements for sharpening the saw:
- I take care of my body by exercising, resting, and eating healthy foods.
- I learn new things.
- I spend time with family and friends.
- I balance my time between work and play.
- I reflect on ways to grow.