Introduction
In a world full of distractions and demands, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. First Things First by Stephen R. Covey offers invaluable wisdom on how to prioritize the most important aspects of our lives. The book encourages us to focus on the tasks that align with our core values and purpose, enabling us to lead a life of balance and fulfillment. As Muslims, we are reminded of the importance of time management and making every moment count, for time is a gift from Allah. Covey’s approach helps us to prioritize our duties and invest our time in pursuits that benefit both this world and the Hereafter.
It reminds us that true success is not measured by productivity alone, but by how well we use our time to serve others, grow spiritually, and contribute to the community. In a sense, it aligns beautifully with the Islamic principle of being mindful of our time and being intentional with our actions.
The Clock and the Compass
In First Things First, Stephen Covey introduces the metaphor of the clock and the compass to highlight the difference between managing time and living with purpose. The clock represents the measurable aspects of life—tasks, deadlines, and appointments. The compass, however, points to our deeper values, our purpose, and what truly matters in life. True success comes when we prioritize our compass—our faith, family, and meaningful contributions—over the ticking of the clock. As Muslims, this aligns with the concept of leading a balanced life, where time is used to please Allah and fulfill our responsibilities.
How Many People on Their Deathbed Wish They’d Spent More Time at the Office?
Stephen Covey reminds us that, when reflecting on their lives, very few people wish they had spent more time working. Instead, people often regret not spending more time with loved ones or pursuing their passions. Work should not consume our lives—it’s important to prioritize relationships, spirituality, and personal growth. In Islam, we are taught to strike a balance between worldly pursuits and the Hereafter. Our work should be a means to support our families and communities, but it should never overshadow the precious moments spent with those we love or the worship of Allah.
The Urgency Addiction
The urgency addiction is a concept Covey describes, where we constantly rush from one task to another, always dealing with crises and putting out fires. This leads to stress, burnout, and a lack of focus on long-term goals. Covey encourages us to break free from this cycle and instead focus on what’s truly important. Prioritizing tasks that align with our values rather than reacting to every urgent demand helps create a sense of peace and purpose. As Muslims, this aligns with the principle of patience (sabr) and thoughtful decision-making, always remembering the greater good in every action.
To Live, To Love, To Learn, Leave a Legacy
Covey emphasizes that life is not just about achieving goals but about living with purpose, loving those around us, and continuously learning. This focus helps us build a legacy of goodness that lasts far beyond our time on earth. As Muslims, we understand that our legacy is built through acts of kindness, helping others, and spreading knowledge that benefits humanity. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The best among you are those who benefit others.” A true legacy is one that not only impacts our immediate circle but continues to benefit others in this life and the Hereafter.
The Main Thing is to Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing
In his book First Things First, Stephen Covey stresses the importance of staying focused on what truly matters. For Muslims, this aligns with the core concept of prioritizing our ultimate purpose, which is to worship Allah and live according to His guidance. The Qur’an reminds us, “And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (Qur’an 51:56). As leaders in our own lives, we must ensure that our actions reflect our core values and align with what will benefit us in this world and the Hereafter. Keeping the main thing the main thing means focusing on the things that bring us closer to Allah and fulfilling our duties with sincerity.
Quadrant II: Organizing the Process of Putting First Things First
Covey introduces the concept of Quadrant II, which represents activities that are important but not urgent. These are the tasks that help us achieve long-term goals and maintain balance in life. As Muslims, this is echoed in the importance of planning for both this world and the Hereafter. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Take advantage of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before your busy time, and your life before your death.” (Al-Hakim). Putting first things first requires us to invest time in activities such as prayer, knowledge, and service to others—activities that align with our values and goals.
The Passion of Vision
A clear vision is a driving force behind meaningful action. Covey emphasizes that a well-defined vision helps guide every decision. In Islam, our vision should be rooted in seeking the pleasure of Allah and living a life of purpose. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “If you ask, ask Allah; and if you seek help, seek Allah’s help.” (Tirmidhi). Our ultimate vision should be to serve Allah, contribute positively to society, and create a lasting impact. Putting first things first means ensuring that all our goals and passions are directed toward fulfilling this higher purpose.
The Balance of Roles
Covey highlights the need for balance in our various roles—whether as family members, professionals, or community leaders. In Islam, we are reminded of the importance of fulfilling our duties to Allah, our families, and our communities. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Your body has a right over you, your family has a right over you, and your Lord has a right over you.” (Bukhari). Maintaining this balance is crucial in ensuring that no aspect of our life is neglected. Putting first things first requires us to prioritize our spiritual duties, while also being attentive to the needs of our families, work, and personal well-being.
The Power of Goals
Setting clear, meaningful goals is essential for personal and professional growth. Covey advocates for aligning our goals with our core values. In Islam, this principle resonates deeply as setting goals with sincerity ensures that our actions benefit us both in this world and the Hereafter. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Whoever sets out for a good deed and is unable to complete it, Allah will reward him as if he had completed it.” (Bukhari). Putting first things first means that we must set goals that not only reflect our personal desires but also serve the greater good, leading to reward in both worlds.
The Perspective of the Weak
Covey stresses the importance of understanding the perspective of others, especially those who are weak or vulnerable. In Islam, empathy and compassion are core values. Allah commands us in the Qur’an, “And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, ‘My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.’” (Qur’an 17:24). As leaders, we must remain sensitive to the challenges faced by others and offer support whenever possible. Putting first things first involves prioritizing the needs of the vulnerable and ensuring that we use our resources to uplift those who are in need.
Integrity in the Moment of Choice
Covey underscores the significance of integrity, particularly in moments of decision. In Islam, integrity is a fundamental principle, guiding our actions even when no one is watching. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The truthful one is the one who speaks the truth even when it is against him.” (Bukhari). Our integrity is tested when we face difficult choices, and it is in these moments that we must remain steadfast in choosing what aligns with Allah’s commands. Putting first things first means making choices that reflect our values and uphold our commitment to doing what is right.
Learning from Living
Continuous learning is vital for personal development. Covey emphasizes that life provides ample opportunities to reflect and grow. In Islam, life itself is seen as a means of spiritual growth and self-improvement. Allah says in the Qur’an, “Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of the night and day, there are signs for those of understanding.” (Qur’an 3:190). Every experience, whether challenging or rewarding, is an opportunity for learning and reflection. Putting first things first requires us to learn from every moment, using each experience as a stepping stone toward becoming better individuals and closer to Allah.
The Synergy of Interdependence
One of the most profound lessons from First Things First is that true success is not a solo journey. Stephen Covey’s principle of synergy teaches us that we achieve more together than we ever could alone. Islam, too, emphasizes interdependence—the value of working together, supporting one another, and building strong, united communities. Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:2)
Living by the first things first mindset as a collective—whether as families, organizations, or ummah—strengthens both individual and communal well-being.
The Interdependent Reality
In the Islamic worldview, no one is truly self-sufficient. We are created in need—of our Creator and of each other. Covey’s idea of interdependence acknowledges that the highest levels of effectiveness come from collaboration, not isolation. Islam teaches this through brotherhood and sisterhood. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“The believer to another believer is like a building whose different parts enforce each other.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
When we adopt the first things first principle together, we build systems and relationships that reflect harmony, responsibility, and mutual success in both dunya and akhirah.
First Things First – Together
Organizing life around what truly matters is even more powerful when done in unity. In Islam, we are encouraged to remind one another of righteousness and truth. Allah says:
“By time, indeed mankind is in loss. Except those who believe and do righteous deeds, and advise each other to truth and to patience.” (Surah Al-Asr 103:1-3)
Whether it’s a family working toward Islamic values or a workplace aligning its goals ethically, the concept of first things first becomes transformational when shared. By walking the path together, we nurture trust, accountability, and shared growth rooted in faith.
Empowerment from the Inside Out
Covey teaches that lasting empowerment begins within—developing character, clarity, and purpose. In Islam, this is known as tazkiyah (purification of the soul). Allah says:
“Indeed, he succeeds who purifies it [the soul], and he fails who corrupts it.” (Surah Ash-Shams 91:9-10)
True leadership, influence, and synergy come from hearts aligned with truth and sincerity. By embodying first things first from the inside out, we empower ourselves to lead with integrity, and empower others by example. It starts with salah before meetings, intention before action, and faith before outcomes.
The Power and Peace of Principle-Centered Living
Living a life guided by enduring principles brings clarity, stability, and deep inner peace. Stephen Covey, in First Things First, explains that principle-centered living means anchoring our decisions and actions in timeless truths—rather than fleeting trends or emotions. This is strikingly aligned with Islam, where the Qur’an and Sunnah serve as the ultimate source of principles. Allah says:
“Indeed, this Qur’an guides to that which is most upright…” (Surah Al-Isra 17:9)
When we live by principles rooted in divine guidance, our personal leadership strengthens, our vision becomes clearer, and our peace deepens—because our life is aligned with purpose.
From Time Management to Personal Leadership
Most people chase productivity. But Islam and Covey both remind us that true success is not just about managing time—it’s about managing ourselves. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used every moment with intention, aligning his time with mission, mercy, and balance. He said:
“Every one of you is a shepherd, and every one of you is responsible for his flock…” (Bukhari & Muslim)
This is the essence of personal leadership—leading the self before leading others. When we prioritize Allah’s commands and focus on what truly matters, time becomes a tool for barakah, not stress.
The Peace of the Results
When we live by principles—truthfulness, justice, patience, and sincerity—our results are not only effective, but peaceful. We no longer chase worldly validation or temporary rewards. We trust in Allah’s decree and work with ihsan (excellence), leaving outcomes to Him.
As Allah beautifully states:
“Whoever does righteousness—whether male or female—while he is a believer, We will surely cause him to live a good life…” (Surah An-Nahl 16:97)
This is the peace of principle-centered living—knowing that your life is meaningful, your actions are valuable, and your soul is at rest. In this space, leadership becomes less about control and more about contribution.
Conclusion: Lead with Purpose, Live with Peace
Leadership, as shown in First Things First and throughout the teachings of Islam, is not just about managing others—it begins with managing the self. It’s about knowing your purpose, aligning your actions with your values, and putting first things first in every area of life: spiritually, emotionally, socially, and professionally.
By living a principle-centered life, we are not only more productive—we become more peaceful. We are not merely busy; we are intentional. Our success isn’t rushed or hollow, but rooted in clarity, sincerity, and divine purpose.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was the perfect example of personal leadership—balancing worship, family, and society while always staying anchored in the principles of the Qur’an. His leadership was not about authority—it was about service, compassion, and steadfastness.
If you’d like to go deeper into how to apply these leadership rituals with an Islamic mindset, check out this helpful guide:
👉 8 Powerful Leadership Rituals for Muslims
Also, for a visual recap of these ideas from Covey’s teachings, this short video offers a valuable summary:
🎥 Watch on YouTube
May Allah guide us all to lead ourselves first, before leading others—and may we always keep the main thing the main thing.
