Stephen Richards Covey is a wonderful person, a talented writer, and a high-quality specialist in the field of management activities. He is known as the author of publications concerning the issues of leadership and life management. Covey reveals people’s personalities, abilities, and qualities with accuracy and confidence. American specialist’s research interests are the psychological traits of highly effective people, their influence on others. The essay explores the “bad habits” of manager and ways to eliminate them.
Bad Talent Habits
The author of the book “The 8th habit” lists five “bad talent habits” of a manager. These include criticism of people and complaints about life, comparison, competition and confrontation (Covey, 2004). “Victims” who have fallen into the “trap” of such phenomena show destructive behavior, a negative attitude, and thinking towards others. As “antidotes” and counteraction to such “chronic problems”, the author lists the following leadership roles that successful people need to follow.
Roles of Leadership as “Antidotes”
There are four leader’s roles in the elimination of bad habits and shortcomings. Successful leadership qualities, skills, and competence combine positive body manifestations, heart, mind, and spirit. The opposites are neglect and conscious rejection of human nature’s spiritual harmony (Covey, 2004). The leadership positions listed below are intended for everyone, regardless of their position; they are used in the case of eliminating the manager’s negative qualities.
To be trustworthy, one can become a “role model” and serve as a “living example” of responsibility, conscientiousness, honesty, and friendliness. Being in the role of a “navigator,” an effective leader serves as “a guide among bad weather and storms.” Thus, a “skipper” successfully knows how to set the right course, find a way out of a problematic situation and lead to good luck. A manager will most likely need to get used to an “adjuster” role in conflict moments and turning points.” Such “customizer” creates a new and unique system of values that allow one to follow the course, as well as manage them. In addition, when the lack of initiative, irresponsibility, and impartiality to work processes are brewing in the company, an «inspirer» comes to the rescue here. A «mastermind» can provide absolute freedom, also stimulate a positive attitude, and enthusiasm, aiming only at the best result. In conclusion, thanks to these examples, the manager can win everyone’s respect by adhering to good thinking and mood.
Reference
Covey S. R. (2004). The 8th habit: From effectiveness to greatness. Free Press; 1st edition.