Here’s the last post in my series on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Communicators.
HABIT 7: SHARPEN THE SAW
Covey says “the saw” is your greatest asset. The saw is, in fact, YOU. He says that it’s necessary to take care of yourself by engaging in self-renewal in four key areas of life: physical, social/emotional, mental and spiritual. I say that when you do this, you become a better, more relaxed communicator. Creativity and energy abound and you do your best work day after day, week after week, year after year.
How to incorporate it:
When it comes to effective communication, there’s plenty you can do to sharpen the saw including these ideas: Set realistic deadlines. Pace yourself. Take frequent breaks. Engage in something other than writing for a short time. Join a mastermind group. Get an accountability partner. Read something inspiring from your swipe file. Eat well. Exercise. Pray. Take a nap. Add to or stretch your creative skills. Push yourself to try something completely new. Go on sabbatical. Whatever you do, do it to the fullest enjoyment of the moment. Covey says that when you sharpen the saw, you stay fresh and “increase your capacity to produce and handle the challenges around you.”
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