Leadership Simplified – What Is Your ONE Thing Today?

As a leader, balancing competing priorities, achieving business goals, and supporting your team can feel overwhelming. Leadership often pulls you in multiple directions, leaving you stretched thin.

But what if effective leadership isn’t about doing more? What if it’s about doing what truly matters most?

In The One Thing by Gary Keller, there’s a simple yet powerful question every manager should ask daily:

“What’s the ONE Thing I can do such that by doing it, everything else will be easier or unnecessary?”

This question cuts through distractions and helps you focus on actions that deliver the highest impact.

How to Apply the ONE Thing to Leadership

1️⃣ Focusing on Your People

What’s the ONE thing you can do today to support your team’s growth and well-being? Whether it’s having a meaningful 1:1 conversation, offering guidance, or removing a roadblock, small actions can make a big difference.

Action Tip: Identify a specific way to empower or support a team member today, like recognizing their achievements or offering coaching for a challenge.

2️⃣ Prioritizing Results

What’s the ONE thing you can focus on that will drive the most significant results for your team or business? Instead of juggling multiple tasks, channel your energy into the actions that truly move the needle.

Action Tip: Review your goals and choose one high-impact task to dedicate your time to. Delegate or defer other items that don’t align with this priority.

3️⃣ Improving Communication and Listening

What’s the ONE thing you can do to enhance your communication and listening skills? Building trust and clarity within your team starts with intentional, impactful communication.

Action Tip: In your next meeting, practice active listening by asking open-ended questions and paraphrasing what you hear. These small changes foster better understanding and collaboration.

Why the ONE Thing Works in Leadership

When leaders focus on the ONE thing that matters most, they become more effective and intentional. This clarity not only enhances your leadership but also inspires your team to adopt a focused, goal-driven mindset.

A leader who prioritizes what truly matters creates a culture of alignment, efficiency, and trust.

💡 Reflection Question for Leaders: What’s the ONE thing you can do today that will have the biggest positive impact on your team and your business?