Put First Things First
iLEAD Schools embrace the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, from the best-selling book by Dr. Stephen R. Covey. The habits are simple and based upon principles that stand the test of time.
Habit 3 is the habit of integrity and execution. It brings together what we’ve learned from Habits 1 and 2.
To live a more balanced existence, we must recognize that not doing everything that comes along is okay. There’s no need to overextend yourself. It’s all right to say no when necessary and then focus on your highest priorities.
Things that appear urgent are not necessarily important. Important things are timeless–family, home, church, work, self-renewal. Things can be urgent and important, but never let somebody else’s poor planning create an emergency for you.
Planning ahead relieves the burden of having to constantly make decisions. Knowing what you want to accomplish for the day, the week, and in the long run is part of being organized and important for prioritizing.
Priorities are the “big rocks.” All the rocks will fit in our imaginary buckets if we place them inside first. What time remains is free and yours to do with as you choose.