Stephen Covey’s Be Proactive, the first habit of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, challenges us with a simple yet powerful choice: act or be acted upon. Covey argues that taking initiative isn’t just a skill—it’s a mindset. It’s the difference, as he puts it, “between night and day.”
One of his key points? Even our language matters. Covey says we need to move away from reactive phrases like, “There’s nothing I can do,” and instead embrace proactive alternatives like, “Let’s look at our options.” Words shape thoughts, and thoughts shape actions.
It reminds me of what Bono once told Jann Wenner in an interview: “The world is more malleable than you think.” In other words, circumstances are often more flexible than they seem. When we act intentionally, we have a hand in shaping our outcomes—even if only in small ways.
This idea resonates with me. Life’s challenges have taught me that waiting around usually isn’t a great strategy. You either take the wheel, or life drags you along. I’ve been on both sides of that equation, and let me tell you, driving—even when it’s hard—is always better.
What about you? Are you acting or being acted upon? And what’s one small way you can shift from reactive to proactive today? Share your thoughts and support my work at JamesBrownTV.substack.com.
On that note, I’m James Brown, and as always—be well.
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