If our intent is to serve, to bless others, without self-concern, a by-product of our service comes within—a kind of psychological, emotional, and spiritual reward in the form of internal security and peace.
Stephen R. Covey
Our Intent Is to Serve
Topic: Serving Others
Anonymous service is particularly important. The philosophy that we will find our life when we lose it in service is a true paradox. If our intent is to serve, to bless others, without self-concern, a by-product of our service comes within—a kind of psychological, emotional, and spiritual reward in the form of internal security and peace. Such a reward comes in the second mile… If our interest is to serve others without self-concern, we are inwardly rewarded with increased internal security and an abundance mentality.
Stephen R. Covey was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on October 24, 1932, and he passed away on July 16, 2012. He was more than an educator and author; he was also a family man deeply rooted in his faith. Covey was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His belief in God and universal principles significantly influenced his teachings and writings. Married to Sandra Merrill Covey for over 50 years, the couple had nine children. Covey's family life and faith were central to his understanding of leadership and personal effectiveness, themes he explored in books like "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families."
Covey was a professor at the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University at the time of his death. But he was best known for his book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People." This book was part of a broader collection of works that also includes titles like "First Things First," "Principle-Centered Leadership," and "The 8th Habit." These books weren't just about being effective in business; they were about how to live a balanced, meaningful life.
Stephen R. Covey left a lasting impression through his teachings and writings, but perhaps his most enduring legacy is the way he lived his life. He emphasized the importance of character, integrity, and ethical leadership. These were not just principles he talked about; they were principles he lived by. His lessons continue to influence people all over the world, encouraging them to lead lives that are not only effective but also grounded in good values.
Covey, Stephen R., [Principle-Centered Leadership] pp. 141, 160.
Stephen R. Covey
Theme: Serving
About This Stephen R. Covey Quotation [Commentary]
Stephen R. Covey’s quotation, “If our intent is to serve, to bless others, without self-concern, a by-product of our service comes within—a kind of psychological, emotional, and spiritual reward in the form of internal security and peace,” highlights the benefits of selfless service. Covey suggests that when we serve others without expecting anything in return, we receive significant internal rewards. These rewards include psychological comfort, emotional satisfaction, and spiritual peace, contributing to a sense of internal security. Covey’s insight encourages us to engage in service for its intrinsic value rather than for external recognition.
The context passage further explains this by emphasizing the paradox of service: “We will find our life when we lose it in service.” This means true fulfillment and a deeper sense of purpose are discovered when we prioritize the needs of others over our own. Covey underscores the importance of anonymous service, suggesting that the absence of external validation enhances the purity and impact of our actions. The internal security and peace from selfless service foster a mindset of abundance, enabling us to continue giving without feeling depleted.
Beyond personal rewards, Covey’s perspective on service promotes a broader sense of community. By focusing on others’ well-being, we contribute to a more compassionate society. The internal security we gain from this selfless approach not only strengthens our resolve to serve but also inspires others to adopt a similar mindset. Through anonymous and selfless service, we create a ripple effect of kindness and generosity, showing that the essence of service enriches both the giver and the receiver.
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