7 Ways to Develop Your Life According to Buddhist Psychology

Abstract

This article explores the alignment between Stephen R. Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and the Buddhist principle of Sappurisa-dhamma (the Seven Qualities of a Good Person). It provides an analytical comparison of the foundational concepts, highlighting both similarities and differences between the two frameworks. The findings reveal noteworthy parallels: "Be Proactive" corresponds to Dhammaññutā (knowing the cause); "Begin with the End in Mind" aligns with Atthaññutā (knowing the result); "Put First Things First" relates to Mattaññutā (knowing moderation); "Think Win-Win" reflects Attaññutā and Parisaññutā (knowing oneself and knowing the community); "Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood" corresponds to Puggalaññutā (knowing individuals); "Synergize" aligns with Kālaññutā (knowing the proper time); and "Sharpen the Saw" integrates all seven aspects of Sappurisa-dhamma. The study proposes practical approaches for applying these integrated principles in everyday life. It argues that harmonizing the strengths of both systems contributes to holistic self-development—behaviorally, emotionally, and intellectually—enabling individuals to face life’s challenges with equanimity, deepen self-awareness and social understanding, and ultimately attain sustainable happiness grounded in mindfulness and virtue.