Book Review: First Things First by Stephen R. Covey

First Things First offers powerful advice on time management

In First Things First, the businessman and author Stephen R. Covey offers a new approach to time management and allows readers to maximize their effectiveness by setting priorities so that they can always have time for the things that truly matter. This clear and detailed analysis is ideal for anyone looking for an alternative to traditional advice on time management: it features a thorough exploration of earlier approaches to time management and organization, an explanation of their advantages and drawbacks, and a balanced discussion of Covey’s approach. It also provides an introduction to the tools Covey uses, including the Eisenhower Matrix, the main criticisms of his work and related approaches, namely the ABC method, giving you everything you need to understand this revolutionary guide to personal development.

This accessible and insightful 28-page summary and analysis is structured as follows:

• A vital read on better time management
• About the author and background to the book
  • The author: Stephen R. Covey
  • Context and background
• Summary of First Things First
  • Summary
  • Key concepts
• Impact of First Things First
  • Limitations and criticisms of Covey’s ideas
  • Similar approaches: the ABC method by Brian Tracy
• Recap of Covey’s main ideas

About First Things First

First Things First appeared in 1994 and has sold several million copies to date. It builds on some of the ideas in Covey’s incredibly influential book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and aims to show readers how to achieve effectiveness in their tasks. The book marked a radical departure from traditional advice on time management, which tends to emphasize speed and control, as it focuses instead on results and the personal goals of each individual in order to achieve overall satisfaction and fulfilment.

About Stephen R. Covey

Stephen R. Covey is best known for his international bestseller The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, which has sold over 15 million copies to date. He was an internationally recognized entrepreneur and management expert, and his ideas influenced a range of multinational companies, as well as world leaders including Bill Clinton. He also wrote several other books, including Principle-Centered Leadership, First Things First and The 8^th Habit: From Effectiveness to Greatness, which have contributed to his ongoing success and popularity.