In our age of distraction when daily we are pulled in so many directions, this book is a very helpful and refreshing read. The authors suggest that narrowing your focus is the key to success - “extraordinary results are directly determined by how narrow you can make your focus”.
Keller & Papason argue that not all things matter equally, despite the speed and urgency that they are coming at us. It takes intentionality and discernment to separate the urgent from the important. Most of us know that certain things matter more than others, but we often don’t allow these to drive our day.
The book talks about the importance of saying ‘no’, it unpacks the myth of multitasking and addresses distraction and its ability to undermine results. It suggests that a balanced life is a myth, as not all priorities matter equally. The authors encourage the discipline of establishing new habits and of applying time blocking in order to achieve mastery. They suggest blocking four hours a day for your one thing. Having a coach or accountability partner to come alongside and keep you on track is also encouraged.
This is great read and if taken seriously will impact the way you work. The book can be summarised by the authors statement - “To achieve an extraordinary result you must choose what matters most and give it all the time it demands.”
The questions I love from this book: -
“What’s the ONE Thing I can do in my life that would mean the most to me and the world, such that by doing it everything else would be easier or unnecessary?”
“What’s the ONE Thing I can do today for [whatever you want] such that by doing it everything else will be easier or even unnecessary?”
What’s the ONE thing I can do in my… my spiritual life, physical health, personal life, key relationships, job, business, and financial life.
My favourite quotes from ‘The One Thing’: -
“It’s not enough to be busy, so are the ants. The question is, what are we busy about?” Henry David Thoreau
“Be like a postage stamp–stick to one thing until you get there.” Josh Billings
“The things which are most important don’t always scream the loudest.” Bob Hawke
(click on the blog title to comment - I would love to hear your thoughts on this book)