Several Habits of Highly Effective Teens

What are the habits that can make someone an effective teen?

During a recent presentation in Madison, John Vincze from Gateway Community College presented three of the seven habits that are listed in Sean Covey's book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective teens. The three habits presented by Vincze are considered crucial for teens who want to move from a state of dependency to independence.

While making the presentation, Vincze said it was important to understand that the habits were not quick fixes but rather tools which, when employed appropriately, enhance personal relationships and happiness. Because Gateway is a Franklin Covey-certified entity (one of two in Connecticut), and works with state agents, municipalities and youth programs, Vincze was able to present the first three steps. 

Each habit listed below is based on a central principle that governs the actions and attitudes necessary to embrace the specific habit. The habits are applicable to adults as well. 

The First Habit

The first habit involves the principle, "Be proactive."  Vince discussed how the natural human reaction when met with stimuli is to react immediately.  However, that reaction can often leave one at risk of taking on a victim-mentality.  He demonstrated this step with a soda bottle.  He shook the bottle, so that the soda fizzed within, and discussed how opening it immediately would result in an explosion of soda.  However, by waiting, the bottle can be opened without incident.  

The Second Habit

The second habit revolves around the principle, "Begin with the end in mind."  Vince asked several members of the audience to tie a length of yarn around the neck of a water bottle.  He passed the other yarn ends through a day-planner to demonstrate how the planner can hold up the bottles (thus planning ahead can help one to retain control over those events and responsibilities).  He then pointed out that everything is created twice (planning and execution) and discussed the importance of a personal mission statement.  A mission statement for a large period of time such as a year can help one remain on track.

The Third Habit

"Put first things first" is the principle at the center of developing the third habit.  Vince reminded the audience of the importance to make up one's mind about preparation.  "Bad habits are easy to form and hard to live with.  Good habits are hard to form and easy to live with.  Remember that," Vince said.

Achieving a Private Victory

Integrating the first three habits marks a transition from dependence to independence, and in the Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens, that constitutes a private victory.  The higher level, interdependence, can be accomplished by employing the other habits, and thus completing the Maturity Continuum.  An interdependent individual achieves happiness through cooperation--working together to achieve a common goal.  Because these first three habits comprise a private victory, they were selected to present as a group.

Vincze's presentation featured a video--featuring individuals sharing their dreams and goals--and additional demonstrations, prompting audience participation.  "I like that he did a lot of interactive [activities]," reflected Bethany Butler, who attended with her husband, Francis McGinn and two daughters.  Their daughter Sabriele, who attends Brown Middle School where the presentation was held, commented "I liked the video."  Farrell, a student at Jeffrey Elementary, "liked getting the [prizes]" which included a monthly/weekly planner for Farrell and her family.  "Sometimes you need to sharpen the saw and be reminded about improving relationships," Francis added.

So what are the other habits?

4. Think Win-Win: Have an everyone-can-win attitude.

5. Seek first to Understand--then to be Understood: Listen to people sincerely.

6. Synergize: Work together to achieve more.

7. Sharpen the Saw: Renew yourself regularly.

Vincze attended a number of schools, earning degrees and certificates at Franklin Marshall College, University of Bridgeport, Yale University, University of New Haven and Belfort University.  He began working part-time at Gateway in 1981, and full-time in 1993.