First Things First
by A. Roger Merrill, Rebecca R. Merrill, Stephen R. Covey
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Book Reviews of First Things First
Book Review: It's About Time
Summary: 5 Stars
The book presents the reader with a fascinating and insightful view of Time Management which has scarcely been equalled, except perhaps by the new Balance Your Choices methods of Brian Scott. Both books get down to the basic fact that there simply isn't enough time to do it all, so you'd better focus on the truly important things. Personally, I prefer Scott's methods of using numerous illustrations along with a central theme that ties it all together. Nevertheless, this book hits on a number of viewpoints which are unique and definitely worth checking out. The time you'll save is certainly worth the time to read this work. If I had to put first things first, I believe learning to manage your time should be a top priority.Book Review: Better Than Seven Habits
Summary: 5 Stars
This is the best book on time management I have ever read. "First Things First" puts "Seven Habits" into action. It takes the "Habits" principles--sometimes a bit too abstract (and obtuse) and shows you how to put them to work. If you find you don't have time for the people and things that are really important in your life, read this book. If you take the suggestions seriously, you will never again short-change what you love. And, if you do, you will be at least be aware of your choices. A word of warning, though: Covey has an entire catalogue of products to sell you to support "First Things First," but the company does seem to be committed to "principle centered" businessBook Review: 7 Habits by Four Quadrants
Summary: 4 Stars
This is a good book, yet it over reaches a little bit and could be a bit shorter to make the point. Yet, Covey and Merrill go a long way to help people sort out the priorities in thier lives.There are four boxes of our time and the tasks that we need to accomplish. Do we have the time to do the busy work to be effective, or do we do the important things first so that other things get done in priority.
This book is an excellent primer for the Franklin/Covey time management program. By focusing on our time the right way, we may be on to greatness. Yet, it may be a better book for managers. Some positions in the world we work in are just busy work.
Maybe Mr. Covey can cover that at a future time.
Book Review: Great Follow-up to the 7 Habits!
Summary: 5 Stars
This book provides useful, profound, and much-needed advice to people who are over-worked, stressed, fatigued, have poor relationships, and feel helpless and hopeless in general. Most people think that to be more effective they have to give up sleep, exercise, friends, and work more and faster. This book provides a revolutionary solution to problems that so many people suffer from. By putting First Things First, you can be more effective while working less and feeling better. First Things First has its roots from The Seven Habits, which I would recommend reading first. The 7 Habits is more general and fundamental, while First Things is more dynamic, practical, detailed, and specific. Read them both!Book Review: "Law of the Farm" Reading
Summary: 5 Stars
This book is the antithesis of the "quick fix." You must learn the practices slowly, and you must be prepared to be challenged. Most people aren't doing what Covey encourages us to do here, (I certain wasn't, and am still learning) so if you don't feel a little twinge when you consume it, chances you're not really getting it. Like Covey's metaphor for farming, this has to be planted and you have to grow with it. Farming isn't about cramming. Great guidance for placing importance over urgency, and integrating your life's activities in a way that makes sense, and flows together. If you stick with the ideas here, you will reap big rewards, both personally and professionally.