Wisdom is the child of integrity—being integrated around principles. And integrity is the child of humility and courage.
Stephen R. Covey
Wisdom Is the Child of Integrity
Topic: Wisdom & Understanding
Wisdom is the child of integrity—being integrated around principles. And integrity is the child of humility and courage. In fact you could say that humility is the mother of all the virtues because humility acknowledges that there are natural laws or principles that govern the universe. They are in charge. We are not. Pride teaches us that we are in charge. Humility teaches us to understand and live by principles, because they ultimately govern the consequences of our actions. If humility is the mother, courage is the father of wisdom. Because to truly live by these principles when they are contrary to social mores, norms, and values takes enormous courage…
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.
The 8th Habit
Covey, Stephen R. [The 8th Habit—From Effectiveness to Greatness] pages 296-297.
Stephen R. Covey
Theme: Wisdom
About This Stephen R. Covey Quotation [Commentary]
Stephen R. Covey’s quote, “Wisdom is the child of integrity—being integrated around principles. And integrity is the child of humility and courage,” highlights the deep connection between wisdom, integrity, humility, and courage. Covey emphasizes that true wisdom arises from a foundation of integrity, rooted in humility and courage. Wisdom, in this view, is about living in alignment with universal principles that govern our actions’ consequences, shifting the focus from personal pride to a humble acknowledgment of these greater principles.
Covey elaborates that humility is crucial because it recognizes natural laws or principles that transcend individual control. This humility fosters respect for these principles, acknowledging that they shape the outcomes of our actions. Covey contrasts humility with pride, noting that while pride makes us think we are in control, humility teaches us to live according to these governing principles. This understanding is vital for developing integrity, as it requires a sincere commitment to these principles, regardless of personal desires or societal pressures.
Courage, according to Covey, is the necessary counterpart to humility in cultivating wisdom. Living by universal principles often means standing against prevailing social norms and values, which requires significant bravery. Courage enables individuals to maintain their integrity, even when it is challenging or unpopular. Thus, wisdom emerges from the dynamic interplay of humility and courage, forming a life that is principled and aware of the broader laws that govern human existence. Covey’s insights remind us that wisdom is a holistic quality, deeply rooted in humility and courage, and expressed through unwavering integrity.
An Additional Stephen R. Covey Quote [And Commentary]
Stephen R. Covey envisions a future where wisdom becomes the defining quality of humanity. He believes that the coming millennium will be marked by an “Age of Wisdom,” driven either by circumstances that humble people or by an awakening of conscience—or perhaps both. Covey teaches that as individuals and societies confront the limitations of pride and the consequences of ignoring universal principles, they will increasingly turn towards wisdom as a guiding force. This wisdom, grounded in humility, courage, and integrity, will lead to a more principled and conscientious way of living. Covey’s hope is that through this transformation, humanity will embrace the virtues necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world with greater understanding and ethical clarity.
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