New Year Reset: Trade Accumulation Goals for Contribution Goals

Jan 1, 2026

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Happy New Year! In this special episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey revisit a foundational principle from their grandfather, Stephen R. Covey, to set the tone for the year: "Life is not about accumulation, it is about contribution."

Moving beyond typical New Year's resolutions focused on achievement and acquisition, Stephen and Britain explore why shifting your focus to giving rather than getting is the key to deeper happiness and lasting fulfillment. They unpack the difference between "Primary Greatness" (character, integrity, contribution) and "Secondary Greatness" (titles, fame, fortune), explaining that while pursuing external success is not wrong, building a life on the bedrock of contribution is what makes success meaningful and enduring.

Britain shares a powerful personal story from the NFL, highlighting how veteran teammate Brandon Graham consciously fights a culture of transactional relationships by contributing to every new player. This serves as a model for choosing connection over comparison in any environment. Stephen reflects on a recent family experience serving at a local ministry, which recentered him on what truly matters as a parent.

Backed by research from Harvard, UCLA, and thinkers like Adam Grant, this conversation is a timely reset for anyone feeling the pressure to constantly achieve and acquire. It is a call to find greater joy in 2026 by focusing on the unseen, noble work of contributing to the people right in front of you.

What We Discuss

[00:00] Introduction to Paradigm Shifting Books
[00:57] Contribution over accumulation: a core principle
[02:00] Research and studies supporting contribution
[03:46] Primary vs. secondary greatness
[04:46] Personal reflections on contribution
[07:02] NFL insights: Brandon Graham's example
[14:44] Family and community contributions
[17:29] Conclusion and reflections for the new year

Notable Quotes

[01:17] “Life is not about accumulation. It’s about contribution.” – Stephen R. Covey
[04:02] “You can have secondary greatness without primary greatness, but it won’t last.” – Stephen R. Covey
[05:24] “My happiness is greatly affected when I live out of a desire for contribution more than accumulation.” – Britain Covey
[06:57] “ You don't have to be an extrovert to have contribution to other people.” – Britain Covey

Resources

Paradigm Shifting Books

Britain Covey

Stephen H. Covey