We are in a series discussing and learning from the best-selling book, The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results, written by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan.
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The first chapter starts with a simple yet powerful quotation from Josh Billings:
“Be like a postage stamp – stick to one thing until you get there!”
The quotation sounds simple, but few people, including many leaders, follow this life-changing principal for success in any field. I readily admit that my own energetic personality and idea-producing mind causes me problems in terms of narrowing my focus, “sticking to it,” and completely finishing all those projects to which I have previously committed.
Author Gary Keller, who built Keller Williams Realty International from one office in Austin, Texas, to the largest real estate company in North America, describes his personal experience and frustration with his team members who were not focused on The ONE Thing:
“In an effort to help them succeed, I started shortening my list: If you can do just three things this week… If you can do just two things this week… Finally, out of desperation, I went as small as I could possibly go and asked: ‘What’s the ONE Thing you can do this week such that by doing it everything else would be easier or unnecessary?’ And the most awesome thing happened.
Results went through the roof.”
So, here is the critical question for this week: In terms of your mission or number one priority, what is the ONE thing you can do this week such that by doing it everything else will be easier or unnecessary?
The question is not easy, but careful consideration and application of the correct answer can not only change your personal and professional life, but also change the lives of those who work for you and with you.
Seriously ask this question and apply the answer in your own life and leadership. Ask your direct reports to seriously ask this question and apply the answer in their lives and leadership as well.
You and your team will be amazed at the results.
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The ONE Thing can be purchased anywhere bestselling books are sold – I encourage you to buy a copy and follow along as we continue our study next week!
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