The One Thing by Gary Keller (A2 Level)

ULTIMATE READING

Teacher Ignacio Chávez

5/17/20252 min read

a person holding a baseball bat
a person holding a baseball bat

The One Thing by Gary Keller is teaching us how to focus on what really matters. The book talks about success, concentration, and doing less to achieve more. Gary Keller explains that when we try to do too many things, we feel stressed and don’t finish what is important. Instead, he encourages us to focus on one big thing—the task that helps us the most right now.

“Success comes when you focus on one thing, not everything.”

Every day, many people are trying to do everything at once, but they are learning that true success comes from choosing one direction.

1. Ask the Right Question

Every day, ask yourself:
“What is the ONE thing I can do such that by doing it, everything else will be easier or unnecessary?”

This question helps you find your most important task. When you do this task first, your day becomes more productive. You are focusing your time and energy on what really matters.

“Big success starts with small focus.”

2. Focus on Less to Do More

Doing fewer things helps you do better work. You don’t need to be busy all the time. Instead, say “no” to small things and “yes” to your One Thing. Right now, you are learning to protect your time and energy from distractions.

“When you say yes to one thing, you say no to many others.”

3. Build Good Habits

Doing your One Thing every day creates a positive routine. Small actions, done again and again, bring big results. You are building discipline, and you are improving step by step. Don’t worry about perfection—consistency is what really matters.

“Success is a habit, not a lucky moment.”

4. Protect Your Time

Find time every day to work on your most important task. Turn off your phone, close your messages, and find a quiet place. This is called “time blocking.” It helps you stay focused and avoid distractions. While others are wasting time on small things, you are investing it in what matters most.

“Control your time, or your time will control you.”

Main Ideas

  1. The book teaches that success comes from focus.

  2. You are learning to ask the right question every day.

  3. Doing less creates better results.

  4. You are building strong habits through repetition.

  5. Protecting your time keeps you on track.

Final Message
The One Thing reminds us to simplify our lives. Don’t try to do it all. Instead, choose the most important task and give it your full attention. When you are doing your One Thing every day, you are growing, are improving, and are creating a life of success.

“Go small, think big. Focus on what matters most.”