In his book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People", Stephen Covey presents a holistic, principle-centered approach to those who are open enough to scrutinize themselves for a better life. He proposes that true success is a balance of personal and professional effectiveness, from personal growth to interpersonal victory.

Dr Covey is an internationally respected leadership authority and the founder of Covey Leadership Centre. This book has been a groundbreaker since its first publication in 1990, and it remains on the list of "International Bestsellers" over the years. His practical wisdoms encompass seven habits, which are fundamental principles of human effectiveness. They are :

1. Principles of personal vision: Be Proactive

2. Principles of personal leadership: Begin with the End in Mind

3. Principles of personal management: Put First Things First

4. Principles of interpersonal leadership: Think Win/Win

5. Principles of empathic communication: Seek First to Understand, then to be Understood

6. Principles of creative co-operation: Synergise

7. Principles of balanced self-renewal: Sharpen the Saw

Reading this book is enjoyable, not only because of those stimulating psychological concepts about human nature, but also the interesting real-life experiences of Dr Covey from which his profound insights generated. It is not the kind of pop psychology or trendy self-help book. The message is clear - success is by no means due to luck, but continuous, committed effort of self-cultivation.

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