For many, the name Stephen Covey will forever be synonymous with his highly acclaimed book The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People, one of the best selling self-help books of all time. Since its publication in 1989, over 25 million copies in 38 languages have been sold worldwide. It has become a must-read for almost anyone wishing to grow in the world of business and management. As the title indicates, Covey identifies 7 habits that he believes to be timeless, and which, once adopted, will make people more effective in attaining their goals. As was reported in the news this week, Stephen Covey died this week at the age of 79.

As people looking to improve ourselves and grow, we constantly seek out wisdom and knowledge from a variety of sources, especially from people who have developed approaches that have stood the test of time. However, as Jews, we must always recognize that our holy Torah is the ultimate source of guidance and Knowledge.

In this week’s Torah portion, Parshas Matos/Masei, we find a Torah directive on how to be successful. In discussing the laws of vows, the Torah states: “Everything that one says, so shall he do.” ( Bamidbar 30, 3). At first glance, this seems to be simply a command to be honest and keep one’s word, with no direct connection to achieving success- although certainly being honest and keeping one’s word is important in becoming successful. However, within this directive, the commentaries see a very important ”habit” that one should cultivate in order to reach great achievements.

At times, people come up with unique ideas or become inspired in some way. They start off very enthusiastically, excited about their idea, and with a new sense of commitment; they can’t wait to implement their plans. Although they are eager and sincere, very often, it's only a question of time until their inspiration fizzles, and they are left no further ahead than when they first came up with their idea. They get an “A” for enthusiasm, but they don't get a passing grade for sticking with it to achieve success.

  The Torah is addressing this very point. When we do have an idea or become inspired to do something, don't let it end there! We must take the necessary steps to see it through to completion and success. As the verse says, “Everything that one says, shall he do...”

We should be diligent to follow through on all of our ideas and inspirations, as though we have made a vow to do them, and thus become true achievers.

As almost everyone knows, it’s all too easy to attempt myriad projects, but it’s not so simple to sustain a strong enough commitment to see them through to completion. This then should spur us to adopt a life-changing habit – all that we have said (thought about, became inspired about), shall we do.

Wishing you a good Shabbos and lots of success.