The One Thing | Gary Keller and Jay Papasan | Cliff Note Books
“The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan is a self-help and business book that focuses on the importance of prioritizing a single task to maximize efficiency and success. The central thesis of the book is that by narrowing one’s focus to one thing at a time, rather than multitasking or spreading attention thinly across many tasks, one can achieve more meaningful results and enhance productivity.
The authors introduce the concept of the “Focusing Question”: “What’s the ONE Thing I can do such that by doing it everything else will be easier or unnecessary?” This question is intended to guide individuals in identifying the most impactful task that will make other tasks easier or irrelevant. The book also discusses the pitfalls of multitasking, the importance of setting aside dedicated time for one’s “one thing”, and how to apply the concept in various aspects of life, including work, personal life, and hobbies.
The book emphasizes goal setting, planning, and time management strategies that align with focusing on the most critical tasks. It also touches on the domino effect, illustrating how successfully completing the most important task can set off a chain reaction of productivity and success.
Overall, “The One Thing” encourages readers to simplify their approach to work and life by concentrating on the task that will make the most significant difference, thereby achieving more with less effort.
Quotes
“What’s the ONE Thing you can do this week such that by doing it everything else would be easier or unnecessary?”
“If you chase two rabbits, you will not catch either one.”
“Success is actually a short race—a sprint fueled by discipline just long enough for habit to kick in and take over.”
“It is not that we have too little time to do all the things we need to do, it is that we feel the need to do too many things in the time we have.”
“Focus is a matter of deciding what things you’re not going to do.”
“Extraordinary results are directly determined by how narrow you can make your focus.”
“The way to get the most out of your work and your life is to go as small as possible.”
“Multitasking is a lie.”
“Achievers always work from a clear sense of priority.”
“Don’t focus on being busy; focus on being productive. Allow what matters most to drive your day.”
Criticisms
The main criticisms of “The One Thing” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan often revolve around the following points:
Oversimplification: Critics argue that the book’s central premise of focusing on just one thing to achieve success is overly simplistic and doesn’t fully account for the complexities of real-life situations where multiple responsibilities and tasks cannot be ignored or deferred.
Not Suitable for All Roles: Some readers find that the “one thing” philosophy is not applicable to all types of jobs or industries, particularly those that require multitasking or balancing a diverse set of responsibilities simultaneously.
Lack of Novelty: Some critics feel that the concepts presented in the book are not particularly new or revolutionary, but rather a reiteration of established productivity and time management principles found in other self-help and business literature.
Practical Implementation: While the book provides a clear theoretical framework, some readers struggle with how to practically implement the advice in their daily lives, particularly in dynamic or unpredictable environments.
Ignoring the Value of Diversification: Critics also point out that the book may undervalue the importance of diversification in personal and professional development, suggesting that focusing on only one thing might limit growth opportunities and the ability to adapt to change.
One-Size-Fits-All Approach: The book’s approach is sometimes seen as too prescriptive, assuming that the same strategy works equally well for everyone, regardless of their personal circumstances, career paths, or individual goals.
Despite these criticisms, it’s important to note that many readers and professionals find “The One Thing” highly valuable and impactful in improving their focus, productivity, and overall success. Like many self-help and business books, its effectiveness can vary greatly depending on the individual’s unique situation and how they apply the concepts.
Themes
“The One Thing” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan revolves around several main themes that underpin its advice and strategies for achieving success and productivity. These themes include:
Focus: The book emphasizes the importance of honing in on a single task or goal at a time, arguing that spreading oneself too thin across multiple endeavors dilutes effectiveness and hampers achievement.
Prioritization: It highlights the necessity of identifying the most crucial task or goal—the “ONE Thing”—that will make the most significant impact or make other tasks easier or unnecessary, thereby encouraging a hierarchy of actions based on importance.
Simplification: A key theme is the simplification of work and life by stripping away the non-essential and concentrating on what truly matters. This approach is intended to enhance efficiency and productivity.
Discipline and Habit Formation: The book suggests that discipline is needed only until a habit is formed. It promotes the idea that focusing on one thing at a time can become a productive habit, leading to sustained success.
Time Management: Effective time management is a central theme, with the book advocating for dedicated blocks of time to focus on one’s “ONE Thing” without distractions.
Goal Setting: “The One Thing” stresses the importance of setting big, ambitious goals and then breaking them down into more manageable, immediate tasks that are directly aligned with achieving the larger objective.
The Domino Effect: The authors use the analogy of a domino effect to illustrate how focusing on the right task can set off a chain reaction that leads to the accomplishment of multiple related goals, demonstrating how small actions can lead to significant results over time.
Counteracting Productivity Myths: The book challenges common productivity myths, such as multitasking being effective, and presents an alternative viewpoint that focuses on doing less but achieving more.
Personal and Professional Application: Another theme is the universality of the “ONE Thing” concept, showing how it can be applied not just in professional settings but in personal life, relationships, and health.
Clarity and Purpose: Finally, the book underlines the importance of having clear goals and a strong sense of purpose, suggesting that knowing one’s “ONE Thing” is fundamental to living a more focused, meaningful, and productive life.
These themes collectively form the book’s framework, offering readers a philosophy and strategy for enhancing productivity, achieving goals, and ultimately leading more fulfilling lives.
Structure
“The One Thing” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan is structured into several parts, each focusing on different aspects of the central concept of narrowing focus to the most impactful activities. Here’s a breakdown of the book’s structure:
The Lies: The book starts by debunking common productivity myths that the authors refer to as “lies.” These include misconceptions about multitasking, a disciplined life, willpower, a balanced life, and others. This section aims to challenge prevailing beliefs that may hinder personal and professional growth.
The Truth: After addressing the misconceptions, the book introduces “The Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results,” emphasizing the value of focusing on one thing at a time. This part of the book discusses the Focusing Question, which is central to the book’s philosophy, and the concept of the Domino Effect, illustrating how success builds upon itself.
Extraordinary Results: This section delves into unlocking the possibilities that arise from applying the book’s principles. It discusses setting the right priorities, developing a purposeful approach towards work and life, and the power of aligning one’s actions with one’s goals to achieve extraordinary results.
Applying The ONE Thing: The final part of the book offers practical advice on how to implement the principles discussed in the earlier sections into various areas of life, including work, personal life, family, and hobbies. It provides guidance on how to make time for your ONE Thing, how to manage your willpower, and how to create a success habit.
Throughout the book, each chapter is designed to build on the previous ones, guiding the reader from understanding the foundational principles to applying them practically in their daily lives. The structure is intended to lead the reader through a logical progression, from debunking myths to understanding the core concept, and finally, to applying the concept for achieving extraordinary results. The book also includes various anecdotes, examples, and practical exercises to help readers identify and focus on their ONE Thing in different aspects of their lives.
Summaries
Chapter One
Chapter 1 of “The One Thing” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan sets the stage for the book’s core message by introducing the concept of the “Domino Effect.” The chapter begins with the story of a domino rally, illustrating how a single action can set off a chain reaction, leading to significant outcomes. This analogy is used to explain how focusing on one small thing can lead to a series of events that culminate in substantial achievements.
The authors argue that success is built sequentially, one thing at a time, rather than all at once. They emphasize the importance of identifying the single most important task that, when accomplished, will make other tasks easier or even unnecessary. The chapter challenges the reader to narrow their focus to one pivotal activity at a time and to dedicate their efforts to excelling in that area.
By presenting the Domino Effect, the authors lay the foundation for the book’s overarching theme: the power of focusing on one thing to achieve extraordinary results. This chapter encourages readers to rethink their approach to productivity and goal-setting, setting the tone for the detailed exploration of this concept in the subsequent chapters.
Chapter Two
In Chapter 2 of “The One Thing,” titled “The Domino Effect,” Gary Keller and Jay Papasan delve deeper into the concept introduced in the first chapter. They expand on the idea that success is not about doing more things, but about doing the right things. The authors use the metaphor of lining up dominoes to illustrate how focusing on one small, manageable task can initiate a chain reaction leading to large-scale achievements over time.
The chapter emphasizes the importance of starting with the right thing, akin to knocking over the first domino, which then leads to the toppling of subsequent, larger dominoes. The authors discuss the progressive aspect of the Domino Effect, where each success builds upon the previous one, creating momentum and leading to greater accomplishments.
This chapter encourages readers to identify their “first domino” in any endeavor—the key action or goal that will set everything else in motion. By focusing on this initial step and ensuring its completion, individuals can harness the power of the Domino Effect to achieve their broader objectives. The message is clear: start small, focus on one thing, and let the cumulative effect of your efforts lead to extraordinary results.
Chapter Three
Chapter 3 of “The One Thing,” titled “Success Leaves Clues,” builds on the foundational concepts introduced in the earlier chapters by suggesting that the path to success can be discerned by observing patterns and behaviors that successful people have in common. The authors argue that instead of relying on trial and error, individuals should study the paths taken by those who have achieved success in their desired fields.
The chapter posits that success is not random but is the result of specific habits, choices, and focuses that can be emulated. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan encourage readers to look for these “clues” left by successful individuals—be it their dedication to mastering one skill, their method of prioritizing tasks, or their approach to overcoming obstacles.
The authors stress the importance of identifying the core activities that have the highest impact on success and concentrating efforts on these activities. They argue that by doing so, individuals can streamline their path to achieving their goals, avoiding unnecessary detours and inefficiencies.
“Success Leaves Clues” implores readers to seek out mentors, role models, or case studies that exemplify the kind of success they aspire to and to learn from these examples. The chapter concludes by reinforcing the idea that by focusing on one’s “One Thing” and learning from those who have successfully navigated their paths, individuals can significantly increase their chances of achieving their own success.
Chapter Four
Chapter 4 of “The One Thing,” titled “Everything Matters Equally,” addresses a common misconception that can hinder productivity and success: the belief that all tasks have equal importance. The authors, Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, challenge this notion by introducing the Pareto Principle, or the 80/20 rule, which suggests that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts.
In this chapter, the authors emphasize the importance of prioritization. They argue that not everything on one’s to-do list should receive the same level of attention and energy. Instead, individuals should focus on identifying the tasks that will have the most significant impact on their goals—these are their “One Thing.”
The chapter guides readers on how to differentiate between tasks that merely feel urgent and those that are truly important. Keller and Papasan suggest using the Focusing Question: “What’s the ONE Thing I can do such that by doing it everything else will be easier or unnecessary?” This question is meant to help readers drill down to their most impactful task.
By debunking the myth that everything matters equally, Chapter 4 encourages readers to become more discerning about how they allocate their time and effort. The authors advocate for a more strategic approach to productivity, one that prioritizes tasks based on their potential to advance one’s most important goals. This shift in perspective is presented as a key strategy for achieving higher levels of success and fulfillment.
Chapter Five
Chapter 5 of “The One Thing,” titled “Multitasking,” delves into the common practice of multitasking and its impact on productivity and effectiveness. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan challenge the prevalent belief that multitasking is an efficient way to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. They argue that what is often perceived as multitasking is actually task switching, which can lead to decreased productivity and increased chances of errors.
The authors present research and evidence to support the idea that the human brain is more efficient when focused on a single task rather than attempting to juggle multiple tasks at once. They explain that each time a person switches from one task to another, there is a cognitive cost, which can accumulate and significantly hamper overall performance.
Keller and Papasan use this chapter to reinforce the book’s core message: focusing on one thing at a time not only leads to better results but also makes the process more enjoyable and less stressful. They suggest that by resisting the temptation to multitask and instead dedicating undivided attention to one’s “One Thing,” individuals can achieve greater levels of success and satisfaction.
The chapter concludes by encouraging readers to reevaluate their work habits, to recognize the pitfalls of multitasking, and to adopt a more focused approach to their tasks and goals. The authors advocate for a disciplined commitment to single-tasking as a more effective path to achieving extraordinary results.
Chapter Six
Chapter 6 of “The One Thing,” titled “A Disciplined Life,” addresses the common misconception that leading a disciplined life is the key to success. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan challenge the notion that one must have extraordinary discipline to achieve extraordinary results. Instead, they argue that success is more about choosing the right habit and then working to establish it until it becomes a natural part of one’s routine.
The authors suggest that it’s not about having discipline in all aspects of life but rather about applying discipline selectively and consistently to develop a powerful habit that aligns with one’s “One Thing.” They emphasize that with enough practice, the chosen activity becomes easier and requires less effort to maintain, thus not requiring constant discipline.
Keller and Papasan introduce the concept of “habit formation” and discuss how, by focusing on one habit at a time, this habit can become ingrained within 66 days, a timeframe they reference based on research studies. Once a habit is firmly established, it requires less willpower to continue, and one can then shift their disciplined focus to develop another critical habit.
The chapter aims to shift the reader’s perspective from believing they need to be disciplined in everything to understanding the power of developing the right habits in the right sequence. By doing so, individuals can create a domino effect in their lives, where the success of one habit naturally leads to the formation and success of subsequent habits, ultimately leading to greater overall achievement and productivity.
Chapter Seven
Chapter 7 of “The One Thing,” titled “Willpower Is Always on Will-Call,” explores the concept of willpower and its role in achieving success. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan discuss how willpower is not an unlimited resource but rather a finite one that gets depleted as it is used throughout the day. This idea is supported by research in psychology and decision-making, often referred to as “ego depletion.”
The authors argue that because willpower is limited, it should be used carefully and strategically. They suggest that important tasks, especially those related to one’s “One Thing,” should be tackled when willpower is at its peak, typically earlier in the day. This timing aligns with the concept of doing your most important work first, a principle that can lead to greater productivity and effectiveness.
Keller and Papasan also discuss strategies for conserving willpower, such as establishing routines and habits that automate behavior and reduce the number of decisions one needs to make, thereby preserving willpower for more critical tasks. They emphasize the importance of managing one’s energy and environment to support high-willpower activities.
The chapter concludes with practical advice on how to prioritize tasks that require high levels of willpower and how to create an environment that supports focused work. The authors encourage readers to recognize the limitations of their willpower and to plan their days accordingly, ensuring that their most important work is aligned with their peak willpower periods.
Chapter Eight
Chapter 8 of “The One Thing,” titled “A Balanced Life,” challenges the conventional wisdom of striving for a perfectly balanced life. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan propose that the traditional notion of balance—giving equal attention and time to all areas of life—is not only unrealistic but also counterproductive to achieving extraordinary results.
The authors introduce the concept of “counterbalancing,” which involves focusing intensely on one’s “One Thing” while ensuring that other areas of life do not fall too far out of alignment. They differentiate between two types of counterbalancing: one for the professional life and another for the personal life.
In the professional sphere, Keller and Papasan argue that extreme focus and time investment in one’s work can lead to significant achievements. They suggest that professionals should lean heavily into their work when necessary, understanding that this might temporarily create imbalance.
On the personal side, they advocate for a more careful approach. Neglecting health, relationships, and personal well-being can have serious long-term consequences. The key is to recognize when it’s time to shift focus back to these areas to maintain overall well-being without derailing professional progress.
The chapter emphasizes that true balance is not about allocating equal time to all life areas but about giving appropriate attention to each area based on current priorities and long-term goals. Keller and Papasan encourage readers to accept the natural ebb and flow of focus and energy between work and personal life, using counterbalancing as a strategy to achieve success without sacrificing fulfillment and well-being.
Chapter Nine
Chapter 9 of “The One Thing,” titled “Big is Bad,” addresses the common fear and misconception that setting big goals or having ambitious dreams is unrealistic or unattainable, and that it could lead to disappointment or failure. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan challenge this notion by arguing that thinking big is essential for achieving extraordinary results.
The authors emphasize that limiting one’s aspirations out of fear or skepticism only serves to restrict potential growth and success. They advocate for the importance of setting large, audacious goals that push boundaries and inspire greater effort and innovation. The logic is that big goals act as a powerful motivator, compelling individuals to extend beyond their comfort zones and engage in more creative problem-solving.
Keller and Papasan discuss the psychological and practical effects of thinking big. They suggest that when people allow themselves to envision a larger scale of success, they naturally start to align their actions and decisions with these larger objectives, setting in motion the activities necessary to achieve them.
The chapter encourages readers to overcome the societal and self-imposed limitations that label big dreams as impractical. Instead, the authors propose that embracing a big vision is the first step toward extraordinary achievement. They assert that by thinking big, individuals can create a roadmap that leads to unparalleled success, making the case that “big” is not bad, but rather a necessary component of exceptional accomplishment.
Chapter Ten
Chapter 10 of “The One Thing” by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, titled “The Focusing Question,” introduces a pivotal concept that encapsulates the essence of the book’s philosophy. The Focusing Question is designed to help individuals zero in on the most impactful activity they can undertake at any given moment to make everything else easier or unnecessary. This question is: “What’s the ONE Thing I can do such that by doing it everything else will be easier or unnecessary?”
The chapter elaborates on how this question can be applied in various contexts, from broad life goals to daily tasks, encouraging readers to constantly seek the most leveraged action that will drive them toward their goals. The authors argue that by consistently asking and answering the Focusing Question, individuals can maintain clarity on their priorities, make better decisions, and streamline their path to success.
Keller and Papasan also discuss how the Focusing Question can lead to deeper thinking and more effective problem-solving. By challenging oneself to consider what truly matters most, it becomes easier to cut through the clutter of distractions and competing priorities that can dilute focus and dilute efforts.
The chapter underscores the transformative power of the Focusing Question in achieving extraordinary results. It is presented not just as a productivity tool, but as a principle for living a more purposeful and impactful life. The authors encourage readers to make the Focusing Question a fundamental part of their decision-making process, ensuring that they are always moving in the direction of their most important goals.
Chapter Eleven
Chapter 11 of “The One Thing,” titled “The Success Habit,” builds on the previous chapter’s introduction of the Focusing Question by discussing how to turn the practice of asking this question into a habit. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan emphasize that consistently applying the Focusing Question in daily life can transform it from a conscious effort into a subconscious habit, a process that can significantly influence one’s path to success.
The authors outline steps to integrate the Focusing Question into routine decision-making, suggesting that by doing so, individuals can more naturally identify and concentrate on their most important tasks. The chapter explains that making this question a habit means it becomes a default part of thinking, guiding actions and decisions almost automatically.
Keller and Papasan stress the importance of persistence and consistency in developing this habit. They discuss the typical challenges one might face in making such a fundamental change to their thought process and offer strategies to overcome these obstacles. The idea is that over time, the habit of asking “What’s the ONE Thing I can do such that by doing it everything else will be easier or unnecessary?” will lead to a more focused, efficient, and productive approach to both personal and professional life.
“The Success Habit” chapter conveys that the power of the Focusing Question lies not just in its occasional use, but in its consistent application. By turning this question into a daily practice, individuals can continuously align their efforts with their most significant goals, leading to greater achievements and a more fulfilling life.
Chapter Twelve
Chapter 12 of “The One Thing,” titled “The Path to Great Answers,” focuses on the importance of the quality of the answers we seek, which directly correlates with the quality of the questions we ask. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan emphasize that the Focusing Question introduced in previous chapters is a tool designed to elicit powerful answers, but the effectiveness of this tool depends on one’s ability to seek out, recognize, and act upon great answers.
The authors guide readers on how to refine their questioning to yield more impactful answers. They discuss the necessity of being specific, clear, and ambitious with the questions posed, as vague questions tend to lead to equally vague answers. The chapter also touches on the idea that great answers are often the result of a deep and sometimes challenging search, requiring research, introspection, and sometimes consultation with others.
Keller and Papasan highlight that finding great answers is not always a straightforward process. It may involve pushing boundaries, challenging assumptions, and stepping outside of comfort zones. The authors encourage readers to be open to the possibilities that emerge from this process, even if the answers lead them in unexpected directions.
The chapter concludes by underscoring that the path to achieving extraordinary results is paved with great answers, which in turn are the result of asking the right questions. “The Path to Great Answers” reinforces the book’s overarching theme that focused effort, guided by insightful questioning, is key to unlocking one’s full potential and achieving success.
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter 13 of “The One Thing,” titled “Live with Purpose,” delves into the significance of having a clear and compelling purpose in life. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan argue that understanding one’s purpose is essential for directing focus and effort towards meaningful goals. The chapter emphasizes that when actions are aligned with a deeper purpose, individuals are more likely to achieve extraordinary results.
The authors discuss how purpose serves as the ultimate compass, guiding decision-making and prioritization. A strong sense of purpose helps individuals identify their “One Thing” in various aspects of their lives, from personal goals to professional achievements.
Keller and Papasan suggest practical steps for discovering one’s purpose, including reflection on passions and values, and considering the legacy one wishes to leave. They also discuss the dynamic nature of purpose, acknowledging that it can evolve over time as individuals grow and their circumstances change.
The chapter inspires readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery to uncover their unique purpose. By doing so, they can bring greater focus and passion to their endeavors, making their efforts not only more effective but also more fulfilling.
“Live with Purpose” reinforces the book’s central message that focusing on the most important things leads to success, and it elevates this message by linking it to the profound impact of aligning one’s efforts with a deeply felt sense of purpose.
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter 14 of “The One Thing,” titled “Live by Priority,” builds on the previous chapter’s discussion of purpose by translating that purpose into actionable priorities. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan emphasize that knowing one’s purpose is crucial, but the ability to put that purpose into practice through prioritization is what leads to tangible results.
The authors discuss the importance of setting priorities that are in alignment with one’s overall life purpose. They argue that effective prioritization is not just about making to-do lists but about making strategic choices that reflect what’s truly most important, not just what seems urgent in the moment.
Keller and Papasan introduce the concept of “time blocking,” which involves dedicating specific blocks of time to one’s most important tasks or priorities. This method ensures that key activities related to one’s purpose and goals are protected and given the focus they deserve.
The chapter offers practical advice on how to organize one’s day, week, and month around these priorities, suggesting that individuals should start with their most important task—their “One Thing”—and plan everything else around it. This approach helps to ensure that the most critical activities are not left to the end of the day when energy and willpower might be depleted.
“Live by Priority” underscores the message that living a purpose-driven life requires not just identifying what matters most but also taking consistent, focused action towards those priorities. By living by priority, individuals can make meaningful progress toward their goals and live a more fulfilling life.
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter 15 of “The One Thing,” titled “Live for Productivity,” focuses on maximizing productivity by applying the principles outlined in the previous chapters. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan emphasize the importance of making productive actions habitual to transform effectiveness and efficiency in achieving goals.
The authors discuss the concept of “time blocking” further, advocating for its use not just for prioritizing tasks but also for ensuring that one’s most productive periods are dedicated to their “One Thing.” They suggest identifying when you are most productive during the day and protecting that time for your highest-priority work.
Keller and Papasan also explore the idea of making productivity a habit. They discuss how, through repetition and consistency, productive behaviors can become ingrained, reducing the need for willpower and making it easier to maintain focus on one’s priorities.
The chapter provides strategies for overcoming common productivity pitfalls, such as distractions and multitasking. The authors encourage readers to create an environment that supports focused work, including minimizing interruptions and setting clear boundaries with others.
“Live for Productivity” reinforces the book’s central theme that achieving extraordinary results isn’t about working more hours but about working more effectively during the hours you have. By living for productivity, individuals can make significant progress toward their goals and enjoy a greater sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter 16 of “The One Thing,” titled “The Three Commitments,” presents three key commitments that individuals must make to leverage the book’s principles effectively and achieve extraordinary results. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan outline these commitments as essential to fully embracing and implementing the concepts discussed throughout the book.
Commitment to Mastery: The authors emphasize the importance of committing to mastering the use of the focusing question: “What’s the ONE Thing I can do such that by doing it everything else will be easier or unnecessary?” Mastery involves not just understanding and agreeing with the concept but consistently applying it in daily life, making it a fundamental part of decision-making and prioritization processes.
Commitment to Using the Focusing Question: This involves making a habit of continually asking the focusing question to determine the most impactful action at any given moment. This commitment is about embedding the question into one’s routine, ensuring that it guides both long-term planning and day-to-day decisions.
Commitment to Time Blocking: Keller and Papasan advocate for dedicating specific blocks of time to one’s most important work. This commitment means protecting your most productive time for your ONE Thing and ensuring that this time is not compromised by other demands or distractions.
The chapter explains how these commitments are interrelated and how each one supports the others. For example, mastering the focusing question makes it easier to identify what to time block, and committing to time blocking ensures that there’s a dedicated time to focus on the answers provided by the focusing question.
“The Three Commitments” chapter serves as a practical guide to integrating the principles of “The One Thing” into everyday life. Keller and Papasan provide actionable advice on how to make these commitments a reality, emphasizing that doing so is critical for moving from understanding the book’s concepts to living them out and achieving extraordinary results.
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter 17 of “The One Thing,” titled “The Four Thieves,” explores the obstacles that can prevent individuals from applying the principles of the book and achieving their maximum potential. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan identify these obstacles as “the four thieves of productivity” and discuss how they can undermine the efforts to focus on one’s “One Thing.”
Inability to Say “No”: The authors highlight how saying “yes” to too many things can dilute focus and divert energy away from the most important tasks. They stress the importance of being able to say “no” to anything that is not aligned with one’s “One Thing” to protect time and resources.
Fear of Chaos: Keller and Papasan acknowledge that focusing intensely on one thing can sometimes lead to chaos in other areas of life. They argue that some degree of chaos is inevitable and that fearing it can prevent individuals from dedicating themselves fully to their priorities. The key is to manage this chaos without being derailed by it.
Poor Health Habits: The third thief is the neglect of physical health. The authors assert that poor health habits, such as lack of sleep, inadequate nutrition, and insufficient exercise, can sap energy and focus, making it harder to pursue one’s “One Thing” effectively.
Environment Doesn’t Support Your Goals: The final thief involves being in an environment that does not support or actively undermines one’s efforts to focus on their “One Thing.” This can include unsupportive people, distracting workspaces, or any external factors that make it difficult to maintain focus and productivity.
The chapter provides insights and strategies for recognizing and combating these four thieves. Keller and Papasan emphasize the importance of being vigilant against these productivity thieves and taking proactive steps to minimize their impact. By doing so, individuals can protect their time, energy, and focus, ensuring they can fully commit to achieving their “One Thing” and realizing their full potential.
Chapter Eighteen
Chapter 18 of “The One Thing,” titled “The Journey,” serves as the concluding chapter and reflects on the path to mastering the book’s principles. Gary Keller and Jay Papasan encourage readers to view the application of “The One Thing” concepts as a continuous journey rather than a destination.
The authors reiterate that the journey to focusing on one’s “One Thing” is personal and unique for each individual. They emphasize that it requires ongoing effort, adaptation, and commitment to the practices outlined in the book, including asking the Focusing Question, setting priorities, and protecting time for the most important tasks.
Keller and Papasan also stress the importance of resilience and persistence. They acknowledge that setbacks and challenges are part of the journey and that learning from these experiences is crucial for growth and eventual success.
The chapter encourages readers to remain patient and disciplined, highlighting that the benefits of applying “The One Thing” principles—such as increased productivity, clarity, and achievement—accumulate over time. The authors suggest that as individuals progress on their journey, the process of focusing on one thing becomes more natural and ingrained in their daily lives.
“The Journey” chapter concludes with an inspirational message, urging readers to embrace the journey of discovering and focusing on their “One Thing.” Keller and Papasan inspire readers to continue striving for extraordinary results, emphasizing that the journey itself is a rewarding process that leads to both personal and professional fulfillment.