Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw®
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The Principle of Renewal
This habit is called Sharpen the Saw because dull or rusty tools are much less effective than clean and sharp tools. The same is true for us. This habit is about preserving and enhancing the greatest asset we have to deal with life and contribute—ourselves. It’s about balancing the four dimensions of body, heart, mind, and spirit.
As we spend time on each of these four dimensions of self, we create growth and change in our lives. We have the energy and vitality to practice the other six habits. We increase our capacity to produce results and handle the challenges around us.
Without spending regular time on renewal, we’ll quickly find ourselves on the path to burnout and exhaustion.
The 4 Human Dimensions
To achieve balance in our self-care means taking the necessary time to renew each of the four human dimensions.
- Body: Exercising, eating well, getting enough sleep
- Heart: Investing in our relationships
- Mind: Growing our knowledge and skill
- Spirit: Spending time on activities that align with our deepest values
Renewal is the principle—and the process—that empowers us to move on an upward spiral of growth and change, of continuous improvement.
Assume responsibility and focus on the things that can be influenced rather than what can’t.
Define clear measures for success and create a plan to achieve them—in the next few hours, over the next few months, or across a lifetime.
Listen, understand, and honour others’ perspectives, and have the courage to express thoughts and feelings respectfully.
Leverage different perspectives to solve problems, innovate, and achieve more than any one individual alone.
Increase motivation, energy, and vitality by making time for renewal activities.
Learn more about Habit 7
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