The One Thing Rule

Jun 22

Written By M P

What’s the single most effective method for making lasting lifestyle changes? The ONE Thing Rule.

Here’s how it works:
Choose one goal—and make it the only thing you focus on for a month or two. Yes, exactly one thing, and yes, months plural.

Set a SMART Goal

You’ve probably heard of SMART goals—they’re:

Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
Timed

They work. And they work even better when paired with the ONE Thing Rule.

For example, “Live healthier” is a great aspiration, but it’s not quite SMART. Narrow it down. A stronger SMART goal might be:

“I want to live healthier by removing sugar (and artificial sweeteners) from my drinks for 2 months.”

Now that’s a clear, focused target. If that goal doesn’t feel right to you, tweak it. Choose something meaningful and manageable for where you are right now.

One Area, One Action

There are many paths to healthy living. Have you heard of the Wellness Wheel? It includes dimensions like physical, emotional, social, and nutritional wellness.

You might enjoy my blog post on The Best Way to Get Healthier. But maybe your priority is nutrition. Here’s a SMART example:

“I’ll eat vegetables as my afternoon snack three times a week for the next two month.”

Simple, clear, and achievable. That’s your ONE THING!

Set Yourself Up for Success

Success starts with planning. What vegetables will you eat? What dips or seasonings will keep things interesting? Be realistic—choose something you enjoy. If you hate bell peppers and hummus, don’t force it. If you love cucumbers and tzatziki, start there.

You can always switch it up later, but keep your options narrow at first. Building a habit takes repetition and consistency.

Expect Bumps—and Keep Going

What happens if you start dreading your vegetable snack? Change it up. This is a healthy lifestyle, not a life sentence.

Try carrots and dip or broccoli and peanut butter (surprisingly good!). If one day you forget your snack and reach for a Snickers or a muffin instead? Acknowledge it. Reconnect with your goal. Forgive yourself—and move on.

If that happens three days in a row and you’re skipping the apple for the candy bar, it may be time to reassess your goal. Is it the right one for you? Is it still realistic?

Eventually, prepping and enjoying your veggie snack will become automatic. Time to celebrate!

Celebrate Your Progress

If you’ve been consistent with your ONE Thing for several weeks or months, celebrate! Share your success with a friend, treat yourself to a yoga class (I know of a few good ones), or reward yourself in a non-food way.

Back to progress! Even if you don’t see immediate weight loss or dramatic changes, those wins matter. They build momentum and self efficacy. It’s the belief in yourself and your ability to do hard things. Small wins add up over time to create a healthier you!

Take the First Step—One Thing at a Time

Life is a journey. Change happens one day, one choice, and one thing at a time.

If you’d like help choosing or refining your ONE Thing—or you want guidance on SMART goals—grab a consultation. I’d be honored to support your journey.

Take Care & Be Well,
MP
Founder