Today I would like to share about the interesting topic, namely "what's the meaning of freedom for human being", the main reason why I choose that topic because many people want to free from the chaos of life, besides that, many people misunderstood about the meaning of freedom, some of them do something dangerous by drinking in order to get the freedom, some of them hold the weekly party in order to get the meaning of freedom, some of them run the business in order to get the freedom, In the book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," Stephen Covey doesn't directly discuss "freedom" as a separate topic, but rather integrates it into the key concepts that shape personal and interpersonal effectiveness. The essence of freedom, according to Covey's view, which is implicit throughout the book, is the ability to choose our response to external stimuli, rather than simply react. This is the freedom that lies in proactivity.
Let's dissect it further:
1. Freedom as Proactivity
Stephen Covey introduced the concept of proactivity as the first and most fundamental habit. Proactivity is more than simply taking initiative; it is the recognition that we are responsible for our own choices and have the power to choose our response to any situation.
* Not an Automatic Reaction: Humans have the freedom to not simply react to their environment, conditions, or genetics. Rather than being "victims" of circumstances, we can choose how we interpret and respond.
* Space Between Stimulus and Response: Covey emphasizes the existence of a "space" between the stimulus (what happens to us) and our response. Within that space lies our power of choice. True freedom lies in our ability to use this space wisely, based on our values and principles, not just emotions or impulses.
* Circle of Influence vs. Circle of Worry: Proactive people focus on their Circle of Influence – the things they can control or influence. This is the essence of freedom: using our energy in areas where we can truly make a difference, rather than dwelling on things in the Circle of Worry that are beyond our control.
2. Freedom Through Principles and Values
True freedom, according to Covey, does not mean doing whatever we want without restrictions. Rather, freedom comes from living in harmony with universal principles such as justice, integrity, honesty, and humanity.
* Value-Based Choices: When we make choices based on our deeply held values, we experience a greater sense of freedom and integrity, independent of external pressures. This is freedom from the tyranny of emotions and conditions.
* Consequences of Choice: Covey also emphasizes that while we are free to choose our responses, we are not free from the consequences of those choices. Understanding these consequences is part of responsible freedom.
3. Freedom from Dependence
This book also discusses the journey from dependence (depending on others), to independence (trusting oneself and taking responsibility), and finally to interdependence (working effectively with others).
* Independence as a Form of Freedom: Achieving independence is a form of freedom, because you are no longer controlled by external needs or validation. You have the freedom to be independent in your thoughts, feelings, and actions.
* Empowering Interdependence: Even within interdependence, there is a form of freedom where you choose to collaborate and contribute, not because you have to, but because you want to, in order to achieve a greater goal.
So, in the context of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," freedom is not the absence of constraints, but rather the inner strength to choose, act based on values, and take responsibility for our own lives, regardless of external circumstances. It is a freedom achieved through self-discipline and commitment to principles.