The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results

Chapter 4 of The ONE Thing suggests that “[e]quality is a lie” (33). Discuss what Keller seems to mean by this statement as well as what makes this statement controversial. 

Keller urges readers to consider how the Focusing Question can apply at different levels (e.g., today, this week, this year, in five years’ time, etc.) and in different areas of life (work, family, spiritual life, etc.). What makes the Focusing Question apply to these different contexts? Does anything change as the question pertains to these different contexts? 

Put Keller’s ideas into practice. Using his technique of “Goal Setting to the Now” (Chapter 14), choose an area that you would like to make progress in and work through the different levels of goal setting from “someday” to “right now.” Describe what your ONE Thing looks like at each of these levels.

Throughout The ONE Thing, Keller stresses the importance of company culture. What practices would ensure the kind of company culture he supports? Can you point to examples of companies that exemplify these traits?

Chapter 6 of The ONE Thing urges readers not to be afraid of thinking big when setting goals. Think of an institution or group you are familiar with (such as your job, school, or team). How are “big dreamers” treated in this context? What is one thing that the institution could do to encourage its members to think bigger and/or support them along the way?

Are there business situations in which you think some of the concepts Keller rejects, such as multitasking, might actually be useful? How would you argue against Keller’s rejection of this concept?

In his book, Keller cites examples of admirable business and cultural leaders, such as Steve Jobs, Albert Einstein, Michael Phelps, and Sabeer Bhatia. Select two or three of these influences and describe what Keller admires about them. What do their examples contribute to Keller’s discussion of his principles?

Keller urges readers to think about how his principles can apply to different aspects of life, including spirituality, health, and family. Discuss how one or more of Keller’s principles might help you work towards a goal in one of these areas.