📚 Part 1: Understanding Habits & Paradigms

1. According to Stephen Covey, what is a paradigm?

A daily routine you follow

A way of looking at something that shapes how you see the world

A goal you want to achieve

A habit you practice regularly

2. Which of the following are characteristics of effective habits? (Check all that apply)

They help you achieve your goals

They make you feel good temporarily

They build your character over time

They require discipline and effort

They give instant gratification

3. A defective habit is one that:

Takes time to develop

Undermines your goals and weakens your character

Requires practice to master

Helps you in business situations

4. Fill in the blank: Changing your _____________ can help you solve problems in new ways and become more effective.

Answer: _________________________

✏️ Part 2: Habit Analysis

5. For each scenario below, identify whether the habit described is EFFECTIVE or DEFECTIVE and explain why in 1-2 sentences.

Scenario A: Sarah checks her phone every 10 minutes while studying, even when there are no notifications.

This habit is: _________________ because _________________________________________________

Scenario B: Marcus sets aside 30 minutes each evening to plan the next day's priorities and tasks.

This habit is: _________________ because _________________________________________________

Scenario C: Emma stays up until 2 AM watching videos on social media, then feels exhausted the next day.

This habit is: _________________ because _________________________________________________

6. Think about Habit 3 from Covey's book (Put First Things First). How does understanding paradigms from Part I help you apply this habit in your academic work?

🎯 Part 3: Personal Reflection

7. Identify one defective habit you currently have that affects your school or career preparation. Describe it and explain how it holds you back.

8. Now describe one effective habit you want to develop this semester. Explain how this habit would help you in your academic and future business career.

9. Journal Prompt: Reflect on this question: "How do your own paradigms influence the way you approach challenges in school or business? Can you think of a time when shifting your paradigm helped you solve a problem?" Write a thoughtful response using specific examples.