If I were to summarize in one sentence the single most important principle I have learned in the field of interpersonal relations, it would be this: Seek first to understand, then to be understood. This principle is the key to effective interpersonal communication.

Vital to quality of life is the ability to work together, learn from each other, and help each other grow.

To achieve goals you've never achieved before, you need to start doing things you've never done before.

We exhaust ourselves more from the tension and the consequences of internal disharmony than from hard, unremitting work.

The way we see the problem is the problem.

We value the clock for its speed and efficiency. The clock has its place, efficiency has its place, after effectiveness. The symbol of effectiveness is the compass a sense of direction, purpose, vision, perspective, and balance. But the empowerment process itself is not efficient.

If we want to make a change in our lives, we should first focus on our personal attitudes and behaviors.