Skip to content

Business Quote by Stephen Covey

“Management works in the system; leadership works on the system.” quote by Stephen Covey
Download Open image
“Management works in the system; leadership works on the system.”

Stephen Covey

About This Quote

Source Book: “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, 1989

Leadership changes the environment to improve outcomes, while management maintains existing processes.

In simple terms: Leaders reshape systems; managers keep them running.

Key Takeaway

Focus on systemic change for lasting impact.

Themes

leadership management systems change

Mood

optimistic strategic

Type

motivational inspirational

When to use this quote

  • business growth
  • team dynamics
  • policy reform
  • process improvement

Key Concepts

organizational theory strategic thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • What system would you redesign?
  • What obstacles might you face?
A Different Perspective

Changing systems can be risky and meet resistance.

2.3 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Stephen Covey

Explore all 663 Stephen Covey quotes

More Business quotes

Browse all 39,021 Business quotes