Summary

Habit 6: Seek Synergy

All the previous Habits prepare you for Habit 6. For these purposes, the synergy relies on four human elements, the Win/Win paradigm, and empathetic listening. Synergy means that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts; it is the core of principle-centered leadership.

Synergistic listening is defined as opening yourself to new possibilities. You are fulfilling the requirements of Habit 2 to begin with the end in mind. A sign of high level synergy can be observed in an emergency situation where there is cooperation and all pride and egos are subjugated. The synergy in an emergency can be translated to everyday life but requires high level of personal security and openness.

The concept of synergy in the classroom challenges both teacher and students – are they truly open to the idea that the whole is...