Why Being Proactive is the Ultimate Superpower

Paradigm Shifting Books

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey spotlight one of the most transformational ideas from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Habit 1: Be Proactive. Featuring rare, archival audio from Stephen R. Covey himself, this episode explores the foundational mindset behind personal growth, empowerment, and leadership.

Stephen R. Covey’s voice rings through decades to offer one of the most important paradigm shifts: that between what happens to us and how we respond, there lies our ultimate freedom. With stories from Viktor Frankl to frontline caregivers to corporate leaders, the episode shows how taking responsibility isn’t just a behavioral shift, it’s a life-altering lens for viewing the world.

Whether you’re navigating career setbacks, relational challenges, or societal pressures, this episode will help you reclaim your agency and expand your influence.

What We Discuss

• [00:00] Introduction to power principle episodes
• [01:09] The legacy of Stephen R. Covey and Habit 1.
• [03:03] Viktor Frankl and the last human freedom
• [07:26] Why taking ownership is empowering, not daunting
• [08:56] Circle of Concern vs. Circle of Influence
• [10:19] The rise of Ben: How one proactive employee changed everything

Notable Quotes

• "Between stimulus and response is a space. In that space lies our power and our freedom to choose our response." — Stephen R. Covey
• "Your life is a product of your values, not your feelings... your decisions, not your conditions." — Stephen R. Covey
• "Proactive people work on the inner circle. Reactive people focus on the outer circle." — Stephen R. Covey

Resources

Paradigm Shifting Books

• Podcast
• Instagram
• YouTube

Books

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R, Covey

Britain Covey

• LinkedIn
• Instagram

Stephen H. Covey

• LinkedIn