The 7th habit from Stephen Covey's book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" is Sharpen the Saw. It is about renewing oneself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Covey argues that in order to be effective in all areas of our lives, we need to take care of ourselves. This means eating healthy, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and spending time doing things we enjoy. It also means learning new things, challenging ourselves, and growing as individuals.
Here are some examples of how to sharpen the saw in each of the four dimensions:
Physical:
Eat a healthy diet.
Exercise regularly.
Get enough sleep.
Avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive drinking.
Get regular checkups from your doctor.
Mental:
Read books.
Take classes.
Learn new skills.
Travel to new places.
Challenge yourself intellectually.
Spend time with people who inspire you.
Emotional:
Spend time with loved ones.
Do things you enjoy.
Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
Seek professional help if you are struggling with emotional problems.
Spiritual:
Connect with your values and purpose in life.
Meditate.
Pray.
Spend time in nature.
Volunteer your time to a cause you care about.
Covey argues that sharpening the saw is not selfish. It is essential for being effective in all areas of our lives, including our work, our relationships, and our personal growth.
Here are some additional tips for sharpening the saw:
Make time for yourself each day. Even if it's just for 15 minutes, set aside some time each day to do something that you enjoy and that helps you to relax and de-stress.
Find a support system. Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your goals and challenges. Having a support system can help you to stay motivated and on track.
Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you're struggling to sharpen the saw on your own, ask for help from a friend, family member, or therapist.
Sharpening the saw is an ongoing process. It is important to be patient and to celebrate your successes along the way.
