Sharpen the Saw The seventh habit in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is “Sharpen the Saw”, and it’s all about renewal, self-care, and continuous improvement. Stephen Covey teaches that to stay effective in the long run, you must regularly invest in yourself—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. 1. Physical Renewal Exercise, nutrition, and rest. When your body is strong, your productivity and energy naturally rise. 2. Mental Renewal Reading, learning, writing, and problem-solving. Expanding your mind keeps you sharp and creative. 3. Emotional/Social Renewal Building meaningful relationships, showing empathy, communicating well, and surrounding yourself with positive people. 4. Spiritual Renewal Faith, values, principles, reflection, prayer, nature, meditation—anything that gives you inner strength and purpose.