The problem with such things is that even within the original context, Covey is more observational than instructional. There is very little one can proactively do to actually move through the levels, it really depends on the corporate culture.

For example, in the fast food industry, it is the rare manager that gets past level 1 because the corporate doesn't care and may actually disuade anything else.

So trying to apply this to your personal relationship is a formula, imo, for disaster, because we're talking about emotions... and a personal relationship.

Further, if you consider it, there is no level 1, as described, in a bdsm relationship. Consent (level 2) is required. There is no level 3. The 'organization' IS the relationship (as you point out) and that, once again is about how you two interact... and ultimately, it's the MOST important perspective. So if it is appropriate within this hierarchy (which I am arguing against) then shouldn't it be the highest level? But, I dislike the analogy so I won't be defending the ordering of the levels.

Level 4 is interesting. I argue elsewhere that there are sub-centric D/s relationships and dom-centric D/s relationships. And that sub-centric orientations are deadly to the health of a D/s relationship. In fact, it's D/s turned upside down, where the sub actually ends up in control despite the 'trappings' that make it look like the dom is in control. If one agrees with my perspective, then level 4 has no place in a D/s relationship. And why would you want to develop the leadership (read domming) skills of your sub?

It's all about level 5. It's about what you bring, in terms of force of will and personality, to the relationship.

And sometimes that's just not enough.

In your situation, as described in part by you and in part by your sub, you have to realize she has the longer and more difficult road to travel. You can help her, but not by applying management and leadership prinicpals, that barely work in the workplace, to your relationship.

Be supportive when she falters but remind her that her value to you isn't diminished when she submits... it's increased. And take all that she says into consideration, as you would any valued subordinate in the workplace, before making your decision. And when it is appropriate, delegate those decisions she is more qualified to make to her, as you would a valued subordinate in the workplace. Those are the traits that make your subordinates, both in the workplace and at home, value and respect who you are and what you represent, (i.e., make you a level 5 manager/dom.)

The rest is Covey making hay for himself. LOL

I've been there and done that in the corporate world. Watched corporate culture simultaneously send their managers to Covey and others to learn to talk the talk while simultaneously suppressing any ability to walk the walk. Because those who can't lead at the upper levels lose control when those around them try.

It's always about who you are and what you represent.