In 'Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less,' Greg McKeown argues that by applying a more selective criteria for what is essential, individuals can regain control of their time and energy. The book is divided into sections such as Explore, Eliminate, and Execute, providing practical advice on distinguishing the vital few from the trivial many and eliminating non-essential activities. McKeown emphasizes the importance of clarity of focus, the ability to say 'no,' and living 'by design, not by default.' This approach helps readers achieve more by doing less and making the highest possible contribution in their personal and professional lives.
Predictable Profits by Stu McLaren provides a blueprint for creating financial stability in businesses by transitioning from one-off sales to recurring revenue. The book outlines a time-tested strategy for launching and scaling membership sites, including attracting, serving, and retaining members. It is packed with real-life success stories, actionable insights, and inspiration to build a membership site that generates revenue, creates financial stability, and positive impact[1][4][5].
The book discusses the benefits of prioritizing a single task and provides strategies for overcoming distractions, building productive habits, and maintaining focus. It challenges common productivity myths such as multitasking and the idea of a balanced life, and introduces the 'Focusing Question': 'What's the ONE Thing I can do such that by doing it everything else will be easier or unnecessary?' The authors also discuss time blocking, habit-building, and aligning short-term actions with long-term goals to achieve success in various aspects of life[1][3][5].
What if success wasn’t enough?
Stu McLaren, a pioneer in the world of online communities and membership businesses, faced this question head-on. By all accounts, he had built something incredible—Wishlist Member, a massively successful membership platform powering over 70,000 communities. Yet, in the quiet of a rainy night at a remote family camp, he realized he wasn’t fully aligned with his purpose.
In this episode, Stu shares how reading The ONE Thing helped him recognize the gap between where he was and where he truly wanted to be. He walks us through the defining moment when he decided to sell his business and pursue a path that connected more deeply to his values and his nonprofit, Village Impact.
But this episode isn’t just about making bold choices. It’s also a masterclass in community building. Stu reveals the essential question anyone leading a team, organization, or membership community must ask: Why would someone want to be part of this community? From shared purpose to inside jokes, he breaks down the key ingredients that transform a group of people into a thriving, engaged community.
If you're feeling stuck between comfort and passion, or if you're looking to create a community that truly matters, this episode will give you the clarity—and the push—you need.
Challenge of the Week:
Define the vision for your community. Whether it's a business, a workplace team, or a personal network, ask yourself: What do I see happening? Where is this going? What will life be like for those who are part of it? The clearer your vision, the stronger your community will be.
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To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: the1thing.com/pods.
We talk about:
- How Stu McLaren used The ONE Thing to make a bold decision and sell his business.
- The essential ingredients that turn a group into a true community.
- Why celebrating small progress milestones matters more than big wins.
Links & Tools from This Episode:
Produced by NOVA
The ONE Thing 
