Start With Just One
The One Thing That Changes Everything in Retirement
What if the secret to a fulfilling retirement isn’t about doing more but doing less with greater purpose?
In their book The One Thing, Gary Keller and Jay Papasan challenge us to cut through the clutter and focus on the one thing that matters most. It’s a powerful concept that applies just as strongly, if not more so, when navigating retirement. At a time when the structure of career life falls away, clarity becomes your greatest ally.
Let’s break down the core principles of The One Thing and see how they directly support a purposeful retirement.
1. Success is Sequential, Not Simultaneous
In the book: Keller explains that big results come from small actions done consistently. Focused effort on one thing leads to momentum.
In retirement: There’s often a rush to “fill the gap” with activities. But real fulfillment comes from meaningful progress, not packed calendars. Whether it’s learning a new skill, writing a book, volunteering, or nurturing a relationship. Choose one and start there.
Try this:
Instead of signing up for five new groups, ask: “What’s the one group or experience that would bring me the most energy and connection right now?” Start with that.
2. What’s the ONE Thing I Can Do… Such That by Doing It, Everything Else Becomes Easier or Unnecessary?
In the book: This question is the heartbeat of the entire message. It forces clarity and prioritization.
In retirement: This question can reframe your path when you’re overwhelmed or drifting. It anchors you back to what matters most.
Try this:
If you’re feeling aimless, ask: “What’s the one thing I can do today to feel more purposeful?” Maybe it’s reaching out to an old colleague. Maybe it’s journaling for 10 minutes. Let that small act guide your next steps.
3. Willpower is a Depleting Resource. Use It Wisely
In the book: Don’t rely on willpower alone. Structure your day so the most important things happen first.
In retirement: Without external schedules, it’s easy to let the day drift. Intentionally carving out time for what fuels you, before the noise of the day kicks in, is a game changer.
Try this:
Block your morning for what matters most. If writing your memoir, working out, or mentoring brings meaning-schedule it first. Protect it like you once protected your calendar in career life.
4. Live with Purpose, Not Just Productivity
In the book: Keller says productivity without purpose leads to burnout or emptiness. Fulfillment comes from aligning your actions with your values.
In retirement: Purpose becomes the new North Star. Without one, it’s easy to feel unmoored. With one, your days feel directed and satisfying.
Try this:
Revisit your values. What matters to you now? Then align your weekly “one thing” to that. If connection is high on the list, your one thing might be initiating a regular lunch with someone who matters.
5. Say No More Often So You Can Say Yes to What Matters
In the book: To stay focused, you have to get comfortable declining distractions, even good opportunities.
In retirement: Invitations and obligations don’t go away. The ability to say “no” is key to protecting the lifestyle and pace you truly want.
Try this:
Before committing, pause and ask: Does this support the kind of retirement I want to build? If not, give yourself permission to opt out guilt-free.
Why It All Matters in Retirement
The One Thing teaches us to trade busyness for clarity. In retirement, that clarity creates meaning. It helps you choose purpose over pressure, direction over distraction, and progress over perfection.
So, what’s the ONE thing you can do today to move closer to the retirement life you truly want?
Write it down. Do it. Then, build from there.
Conflux Retirement Coaching is about merging the best of who you are with who you want to become. As we move into or through retirement, we can get pulled back into a rhythm of busyness. This pattern can push away those people, places or things that mean the most to us. And while we may feel there’s an abundance of time, we know that we’re only promised the present moment. Focusing on what matters most can reshape your retirement journey. If I can help, please reach out.
