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The Habits Book I Revisit Every Year (And Why It’s Not What You Expect)
💡 Most self-help books teach tactics. This one shapes your character.
Selim Uysal
May 04, 2025
Book Cover
Hi friend,
Over the years, I’ve read many great books on habits;
Atomic Habits by James Clear, Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg, The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg. They’re practical, actionable, and widely popular for a reason.
But if I had to choose just one habits book to re-read every year…
It would be The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey.
Here’s why:
Surface-level tactics vs. deep transformation
📌 Most habit books focus on surface-level change: productivity tricks, systems, or “life hacks.”
Covey’s work goes deeper into character ethics, timeless principles, and long-term transformation. He writes about integrity, values, long-term vision, and building a life from the inside out.
In a world obsessed with shortcuts, 7 Habits reminds us that the foundation of effectiveness isn’t in tools—it’s in who we are.
“The way we see the problem is the problem.”
He doesn’t just ask, “What do you want to achieve?”
He asks, “Who do you want to become?”
That’s the question that changes everything.
You can’t shortcut character
One idea stood out as I reread parts of the book this week:
You reap what you sow. And there’s no shortcut to harvest.
Covey explains that lasting success comes from character, not charisma. From principles, not manipulation. From deep roots, not quick wins.
In his words:
“The best communication is character.”
“If there's no trust, even the most brilliant technique won’t matter.”
It’s easy to skip this foundational work. It’s less glamorous, takes time, and demands honesty. But it’s the only path to meaningful and sustainable growth.
That’s why I keep coming back to this book
It reminds me that effectiveness is a byproduct of who you are; not just what you do.
🌱 The best habits aren’t just about productivity.
They’re about planting values that grow into a meaningful life.
💬 Your Turn
What’s one book you return to every year and why?
📩 Reply to this email or comment below; I’d love to hear your reflections.
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Thanks for reading. Let me know if you have any questions or feedback!
Selim
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