Review of The 8th Habit by Steven R. Covey

One of the things that I have learned from working for other is this: there is a major shift going on in our economy that we should become aware of and then take steps to position ourselves to take advantage of this shift.

I remember reading in Steven R. Covey's book "The 8th Habit" the following concept: "The five ages of civilization's voice: first, the Hunter and Gatherer Age; second, the Agricultural Age; third, the Industrial Ages; fourth, the information/Knowledge Worker Age; and finally, an emerging Age of Wisdom." (page 12)

As each age emerged in the world the old ways began downsizing and the new ways increased as the pioneers paved the way to higher productivity. Most jobs today are based in the Industrial Age philosophy. "The main assets and primary drivers of economic prosperity in the Industrial Age were machines and capital - things. People were necessary but replaceable. You could control and churn through manual workers with little consequence - supply exceeded demand." (page 15)

● According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, mass layoffs reached a 10-year peak in the first quarter of 2005.

● In January 2005 alone, 2,564 different large layoffs, affecting 239,454 workers, occurred.

● 1500 jobs are eliminated daily in U.S.

The rest of his book explains how you can find your voice and apply this knowledge to upgrade your stability and financial worth in the coming years as we move into the next era.

● According to a industry expert Home-based business is a $427 Billion a year industry. That’s more than the pharmaceutical industry, food industry, and consumer goods industry combined!

● The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there are now over 18.3 million home-based businesses in the United States. (Entrepreneur Magazine)

● According to the Small business Administration, today more than half (53%) of all small businesses in the U.S. are home-based.

● Every 11 seconds someone starts a home-based business.

The book has given me a new lease on life. Go to Search 2.0 (just below my profile on the right) and find The 8th Habit in Amazon.com so that you may order it and upgrade your life also.

William H. Clausen
synergistic Solutions
synergyweb@yahoo.com
503-678-6522