First Things First [abridged]

Stephen R. Covey is an internationally respected leadership authority and founder of Covey Leadership Center. He received his M.B.A. from Harvard and a doctorate from Brigham Young University, where he was a professor of business management and organizational behavior for 20 years. His book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, has sold more than 10 million copies and has been translated into 30 languages.

A. Roger Merril, a well-known leader in time management and leadership development, is a vice president and founding meember of Covey Leadership Center. He holds a degree in business management and has done extensive graduate work in organizational behavior and adult learning.

Rebecca R. Merril, a mother, grandmother, homemaker, and accomplished author, has also served in numerous leadership positions in a variety of community, eduational, and women's organizations.