The One Thing

In a world filled with distractions and endless to-do lists, sometimes focusing on one thing can create a cascade of progress.

In the book “The One Thing,” Gary Keller and Jay Papasan ask:

 “What is the one thing I can do such that by doing it, everything else will be easier or unnecessary?”

Takes me back to post about Michael Hyatt’s list from Free to Focus and a recent conversation with a coaching client.
Quick reminder: his 7 practices to renew energy:
 1. Sleep
2. Eat
3. Move
4. Connect
5. Play
6. Reflect
7. Unplug

In my Unlocking More Free Time group, I asked clients to focus on one of these energy “renewals” as a way to start. I’ll give some examples in how this relates to ‘The One Thing’. You know how when you are tired, every sugary or carb-loaded item in the house seems to call your name? Not whispering your name, but like when your 3 year old finished going to the bathroom and is worried you somehow left the house. <<MOMMMMM!!>> It’s that kind of scream. When I’m tired– I cave to all the sugars and carbs. But then I am in this cycle of bloat, fatigue, and energy highs and crashes. 

What’s ONE thing I could do to make this easier? Better sleep. 

For me, when I get enough sleep, I’m less likely to snack on sugar and caffeine all day… and less likely to crave a nap. I’m more likely to exercise. And to be more mentally present. I’m also more likely to want to play with my kids. The sleep makes everything easier or unnecessary… 

Other “ONE things” that come up often:

When I eat well and don’t over-drink at a holiday party, I’m more likely to sleep better, exercise the next day… 

When I connect with my kids and play after school, dinner prep and bedtime routines are more likely to run smoothly….

Are there way you could incorporate one thing: whether it’s sleep, eating, moving, connecting, playing, reflecting, unplugging that might make everything else easier?