Habit 1: Be Proactive
Defined: I am a responsible person. I take initiative. I choose my actions, attitudes,and moods. I do not blame others for my wrong actions. I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking.
Hand Signal: Place your thumb to your chest.
Habit 2: Begin With the End in Mind
Defined: I plan ahead and set goals. I do things that have meaning and make a difference. I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school's mission and vision. I look for ways to be a good citizen.
Hand Signal: Begin (point to your feet) With the End (both hands point to the sky) in Mind (point to your head).
Habit 3: Put First Things First
Defined: I spend my time on things that are most important. This means I say no to the things I know I should not do. I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan. I am disciplined and organized.
Hand Signal: Hold up your index finger each time you say the word "first."
Habit 4: Think Win-Win
Defined: I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want.When conflicts arise, I look for a win-win solution.
Hand Signal: Think (point to your head) Win (one hand out, palm open) Win (the other hand out, palm open).
Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood
Defined: I listen to other people's ideas and feelings. I try to see things from their viewpoint (paradigm). I listen to others without interrupting. I listen with my ears, my eyes, and my heart. I am confident voicing my ideas in a respectful way.
Hand Signal: Place your hand over your brow like you're looking over the horizon, then cup both hands behind your ears.
Habit 6: Synergize
Defined: I value other people's strengths and learn from them. I get along well with others, even people who are different than me. I work well in groups. I seek out other people's ideas because I know that by teaming with others, we can create better solutions than any one of us can alone. I look for Third Alternatives.
Hand Signal: Put your hand out toward the opposite forearm and grab your forearm. Then shake your arms up and down like a "mixer."
Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw
Defined: I take care of my body by eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep(body). I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school(brain). I spend time with family and friends (heart). I take time to find meaningful ways to help people (soul). I balance all four parts of myself.
Hand Signal: Pretend you are sawing a tree.
Copyright: Franklin Covey