Introduction: Why “Living the 7 Habits” Matters for Muslims Today
In a world full of distractions, stress, and spiritual fatigue, many Muslims are searching for a lifestyle that balances both dunya (worldly life) and deen (faith). That’s where Stephen R. Covey’s book “Living the 7 Habits” comes in. This isn’t just another self-help book—it’s a guide full of principles that echo deeply with Islamic values.
You may have heard of Covey’s original book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. It’s a global bestseller that has helped millions. But Living the 7 Habits takes it one step further—it’s about applying those life-changing habits in real life, every single day.
Let’s explore how Living the 7 Habits can truly transform the life of a Muslim in 7 powerful ways, In Sha Allah.
Living the 7 Habits Means Putting First Things First—Like Salah
The third habit in Covey’s framework is “Put First Things First.” As Muslims, we already know the importance of prioritizing the five daily prayers. But how often do we actually plan our day around them?
Covey teaches us to focus on what’s most important—not what’s urgent. Isn’t that what Islam has been teaching us all along?
“Successful are the believers who are humble in their prayers…”
— [Surah Al-Mu’minun, 23:1-2]
By consciously applying this habit, you don’t just manage time better—you live with barakah (blessing). You begin your day with Fajr and plan everything around your spiritual anchor.
Be Proactive: Trust in Allah But Also Tie Your Camel
The first habit in Covey’s book is “Be Proactive.” In Islam, we call this tawakkul: placing our trust in Allah while also taking responsibility for our actions.
Covey says, “Between stimulus and response is our greatest power—the freedom to choose.” Islam teaches us the same: we are accountable for our choices, but we also believe Allah is in control.
Instead of reacting to life with frustration, we can respond with faith, patience, and action.
A perfect example of this blend is found in this popular hadith:
“Tie your camel and trust in Allah.”
— [Tirmidhi]
It means: don’t be passive. Don’t wait for life to happen. Take the first step—and then trust that Allah will guide you the rest of the way.
Begin With the End in Mind: Think Akhirah, Not Just Duniya
One of the most powerful habits from Living the 7 Habits is “Begin with the End in Mind.” Most people take this to mean setting goals or visualizing success—but for Muslims, it goes much deeper.
For us, the ultimate end is the Hereafter.
Every action we take should be connected to our purpose as believers:
“And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.”
— [Surah Adh-Dhariyat, 51:56]
When you start with your destination—Jannah (Paradise)—your choices start to align. You become more intentional. You filter your habits, friends, and lifestyle through your akhirah lens.
If you want a deeper breakdown of how these habits work in general, you can check out this 7 Habits summary on Oberlo.
Seek First to Understand: Listen Like the Prophet ﷺ
One of the habits that struck me the most was “Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood.”
This is so relevant for Muslims today—especially in relationships, parenting, and even da’wah. In the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ’s life, we find that he was always listening deeply before responding.
Covey encourages us to listen with the intent to understand, not to reply. That is akhlaq (good character) in action.
Imagine how many conflicts we could resolve if we practiced this in our homes and communities.
“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent.”
— [Bukhari & Muslim]
Sharpen the Saw: Recharge Your Imaan and Your Mind
The seventh habit is “Sharpen the Saw.” Covey means we must constantly renew ourselves in four areas: physical, social/emotional, mental, and spiritual.
For Muslims, that spiritual renewal is crucial. It can be as simple as:
- Making sincere dhikr (remembrance of Allah)
- Reading the Qur’an with reflection
- Taking time for quiet contemplation or dua
When you’re spiritually recharged, everything else falls into place. You’re less anxious. You have more clarity. You serve others better.
For practical tips on spiritual and personal growth tailored for Muslims, check out this insightful resource:
Personal Growth for Muslims – TheZaid.com
Think Win-Win: Bring Barakah into Every Relationship
Many of us grew up thinking that success means someone has to lose. But in Living the 7 Habits, Covey presents a better model: Think Win-Win.
In Islam, this aligns with the concept of ihsan—doing good beyond what is expected. In marriage, in business, in community—everyone can benefit when there’s sincerity and mutual respect.
For example:
- In business: Fair prices, ethical trade
- In family: Cooperation, not domination
- In society: Justice and mercy working together
When you think win-win, you think long-term. You avoid ego and focus on barakah.
Synergize: Work Together Like the Ummah
Habit #6, “Synergize,” is all about teamwork. It’s about celebrating differences and using them for creative solutions. Doesn’t that remind you of the diversity of the Muslim Ummah?
Covey says, “Strength lies in differences, not in similarities.” Allah says something similar:
“O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another.”
— [Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:13]
Whether you’re working in a masjid, volunteering, or building a Muslim start-up, synergy is key. We’re stronger together.
Final Thoughts: A Book That Speaks to the Heart of a Believer
Living the 7 Habits isn’t an Islamic book per se, but it’s full of lessons that Muslims can adopt without compromising their faith. In fact, the more you read it, the more you’ll notice the alignment with Qur’anic values, Prophetic teachings, and Islamic ethics.
When you live by principles—not just feelings—you become more balanced, productive, and peaceful.
So don’t just read the book. Live it. Make it part of your life. Let it complement your journey toward Allah.
“Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.”
— [Surah Ar-Ra’d, 13:11]
May Allah grant us the wisdom to live these habits with sincerity, and may they be a means of success in both worlds. Ameen.
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