Summary and Review of The One Thing by Gary Keller

Gary Keller’s “The One Thing” provides a clear framework for achieving extraordinary results through focused effort. Keller encourages readers to identify the “one thing” or single most important task that will have the greatest impact on their goals and devote their time and energy to that task. Here are three big ideas from the book, each paired with a Catholic insight, and a practical tip for implementation.

1. The Power of Focus: Prioritize Your “One Thing”

Basic Concept: Keller emphasizes that the path to success is not about doing more but about doing what matters most. By focusing on one significant task or goal—the “One Thing”—we create a powerful “domino effect,” where small, focused actions lead to larger achievements over time: “Success is sequential, not simultaneous. It’s one thing at a time” (10).

Catholic Insight: From a Catholic perspective, this principle resonates with the call to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” By focusing on our primary vocation and spiritual life, everything else in our lives finds its proper place. Just as Keller advises focusing on the one thing that drives success, Catholics are invited to make their relationship with God the “one thing” around which all other aspects of life revolve.

Practical Tip: Each morning, during prayer or reflection, ask yourself: “What’s the one thing I can do today such that by doing it, everything else will be easier or unnecessary?” Focus on that task first before anything else.

2. Time Blocking: Guarding Your Time for What Matters Most

Basic Concept: Keller advocates for the practice of time blocking, dedicating specific periods solely to working on your “One Thing” without distractions. This method ensures that your most important tasks receive the attention they deserve, protecting your time from the tyranny of the urgent but unimportant: “Time blocking is a very results-oriented way of viewing and using time. It’s a way of making sure that what has to be done gets done” (165).

Catholic Insight: Time blocking mirrors the Catholic practice of setting aside specific times for prayer, Mass, and reflection. Just as Keller suggests protecting your time for critical tasks, Catholics are encouraged to safeguard time for God. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2697) stresses that regular, intentional times of prayer are essential for a vibrant spiritual life.

Practical Tip: Set aside at least one hour each morning as a “power hour” dedicated to your “One Thing.” Turn off notifications, avoid emails, and focus solely on your priority task to build momentum for the day.

3. Overcoming Multitasking: Embrace Single-Tasking for Deeper Connection

Basic Concept: Keller challenges the myth of multitasking, arguing it scatters focus and reduces quality. Instead, he encourages single-tasking—dedicating full attention to one task at a time: “Multitasking is merely the opportunity to screw up more than one thing at a time” (47).

Catholic Insight: In the spiritual life, the call to single-tasking aligns with the Catholic emphasis on being fully present in prayer, relationships, and daily duties. The practice of mindfulness and attentiveness, as seen in the contemplative traditions of the Church, mirrors Keller’s advice to avoid multitasking. In the Gospel of Luke (10:38-42), Jesus commends Mary for choosing “the one thing needed” by sitting at His feet and listening attentively, rather than being distracted by many tasks like Martha. This highlights the value of single-minded devotion and being present in the moment, whether in prayer, service, or daily interactions.

Practical Tip: Eliminate distractions during your focused work time by using apps like “Focus@Will” or “Freedom” that block social media and other interruptions, allowing you to give undivided attention to your task at hand.

Conclusion

“The One Thing” offers valuable strategies that can be integrated into a Catholic lifestyle, fostering focus, intentionality, and a deeper alignment with one’s faith. By prioritizing what truly matters, protecting our time for God, and being present in our actions, we can live more purposeful and fulfilling lives in line with our spiritual goals. Keller’s insights, when viewed through a Catholic lens, serve as a reminder to center our lives around the ultimate “One Thing”—our relationship with God.