Book Review – The One Thing
Recently, I’ve been reading a book entitled The One Thing – the Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results by Gary Keller. I was struck by a Russian proverb quoted at the beginning of the book: “If you chase 2 rabbits, you will not catch either one.” I’ve spent a lot of time and effort trying to do everything and I can tell you that that doesn’t work so well!
Keller first asks a question – right off the bat: Think of a problem, a task to accomplished. what’s the one thing you can do right now that will make everything else easier or unnecessary? The book is about doing one thing – clearing “clutter” and honing in on the One Thing in every situation.
Here are some of Keller’s key points –
Focus is all important. Keller says go small! Extraordinary results can be achieved by making your focus laser narrow. He feels that multi-tasking has been oversold and I can personally testify to that in my own experience. It’s important to realize that all things in life do NOT matter equally. You need to identify what matters most. Success requires prioritizing.
Distractions undermine results. Humans are incapable of focusing equally on more than one thing – switching your 
focus back and forth wastes time and energy – it is not productive. Concentrate on doing one thing at a time and do what matters most – success is built sequentially over time.
Live with purpose – discover your purpose by asking yourself “what drives you?” Pick a direction and go – set your goals and priorities. A purposeful mindset requires taking ownership. Be accountable for what you do and what you achieve.
I found this a fascinating approach to managing your life and achieving your goals.
I’m starting a new blog series with “how to” articles for making jewelry items. These monthly articles will eventually be downloads or available elsewhere on my website.