The Maturity Continuum
The 7 Habits provide a sequential approach to move us progressively on a Maturity Continuum from dependence to independence to interdependence.
Dependence is the paradigm of “you”—you take care of me. Independence is the paradigm of “I”—I am self-reliant. Interdependence is the paradigm of “we”—we can do it; we can combine our talents and abilities to create something greater together. Despite independence being the avowed goal of many people and social movements, interdependence is a far more effective and advanced concept. The Maturity Continuum is built on an inside-out approach. In other words, Habits 1, 2, and 3 deal with self-mastery. They help you progress from dependence to independence or the Private Victory®. As you become truly independent, you have the foundation for effective interdependence. You have the character base from which you can effectively work on Habits 4, 5, and 6— the more skill-oriented Public Victory ® of teamwork, cooperation, and communication. Habit 7 is the habit of renewal—a regular, balanced renewal of the four basic dimensions of life. It encircles all the other habits.
Looking at the Maturity Continuum, where are you right now? Take a few minutes and record where you are now and why. What behaviors and attitudes do you exhibit that put you at this stage of the continuum? Are you beginning to see where you need the most work?
Dependence is the paradigm of “you”—you take care of me. Independence is the paradigm of “I”—I am self-reliant. Interdependence is the paradigm of “we”—we can do it; we can combine our talents and abilities to create something greater together. Despite independence being the avowed goal of many people and social movements, interdependence is a far more effective and advanced concept. The Maturity Continuum is built on an inside-out approach. In other words, Habits 1, 2, and 3 deal with self-mastery. They help you progress from dependence to independence or the Private Victory®. As you become truly independent, you have the foundation for effective interdependence. You have the character base from which you can effectively work on Habits 4, 5, and 6— the more skill-oriented Public Victory ® of teamwork, cooperation, and communication. Habit 7 is the habit of renewal—a regular, balanced renewal of the four basic dimensions of life. It encircles all the other habits.
Looking at the Maturity Continuum, where are you right now? Take a few minutes and record where you are now and why. What behaviors and attitudes do you exhibit that put you at this stage of the continuum? Are you beginning to see where you need the most work?