The One Thing
"What's the one thing I can do, such that by doing it everything else is easier or unnecessary?” - Gary Keller
I was taught to set goals. SMART goals, we called them. Envision what could be and write it down.
I enjoy creating goals; it gives me energy. It creates a fresh start and often serves as a source of motivation when striving for more.
Living in an achievement-oriented society, we’re taught that setting and accomplishing goals are a crucial part of attaining success.
I have a lot to say about goals; the why, the how, the meaning (or sometimes lack thereof) of accomplishment, and I’m sure I’ll revisit many of these topics in future Insights.
But I’ll focus this conversation on one strategy I’ve found helpful in working towards an aspiration.
This concept is pulled from a book by Gary Keller, founder of the Real Estate firm Keller Williams. (For a more robust explanation I’d encourage you to read the book or listen to this Tim Ferriss interview.)
Keller suggests we approach our goals/objectives/challenges by asking the following question: “What's the one thing I can do, such that by doing it everything else is easier or unnecessary?”
Simple, elegant, and hard as hell to execute. Applicable to just about anything, but requires second level thinking and a deep, focused commitment.
But, if you can find the ONE thing he speaks of, for any given objective, it can be a force multiplier.
I approached my goals this year with the One Thing principal in mind, distilling down all I wanted to accomplish by focusing on one single objective for the entire year. The trickle down effect has been incredible and at the risk of sounding dramatic, it’s been a game changer.
So, what’s your One Thing? Give yourself a few minutes to ponder and see what happens. I’d love to hear what you come up with.