Most leaders don’t fail because they lack clarity.
They fail because they lack focus.
Clarity without focus is just noise.
That’s where The One Thing comes in.
Gary Keller and Jay Papasan’s book frames it with one question:
“What’s the ONE thing I can do such that by doing it, everything else will be easier or unnecessary?”
What a powerful line.
It’s simple. But not easy.
Define Progress by Defining One Goal
Progress isn’t motion. It isn’t busyness. Progress is knowing precisely what you’re aiming for and breaking it down until action is possible.
Start big: What is the one outcome that matters most this year?
Work backward: What must happen this quarter to make that outcome real?
Zoom closer: What can you deliver this month? This week? Today?
For example, if your One Thing is starting a business:
This year: Generate $50,000 in revenue.
This quarter: Develop an individual training package.
This month: Build a website.
This week: Create the LLC.
Each layer sharpens the picture of Done into something that’s not just inspiring, but actionable.
More Than a List
Brainstorming tasks is useful. But confidence comes from knowing that any one of those tasks moves you closer to the One Goal.
That’s the power of focus. You stop guessing which actions matter and start trusting that forward motion in any of the correct places still drives the larger vision.
Choosing What to Sacrifice
I’ve always wanted to perform at an elite level—most knowledgeable, best deliverables, highest value in the room. I believe many leaders share the same sentiment.
The challenge is that I often feel like I must be elite in every area. That’s my trap.
I fail to recognize that I need to choose what to be great at—and what not to be great at. Focus forced me to face this truth.
The reality is, you can’t master everything. A bodybuilder cannot also be an elite marathon runner. They are both elite, but in different ways.
Focus means sacrificing some pursuits so you can excel in the right ones.
Clarity is not just about what you pursue. It’s about what you’re willing to let go of.
Reflection and Challenge
What’s the one goal that matters most to you this year?
What quarterly milestone, monthly target, and weekly action will move you toward it?
What are you willing to sacrifice so that this One Thing can truly succeed?
Anyone can chase many things. Leaders dare to choose the one.