The Power of One Thing by Randy Carlson

The Power of One Thing -  How to Intentionally Change Your Life

written by Dr. Randy Carlson

Published by Tyndale House Publishers

ISBN:  978-0-8423-8222-9

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=382229&item_code=WW&netp_id=627248&event=ESRCN&view=details

In compliance with new FTC regulations, I am disclosing that I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers.

January 3rd is an accidental, but ideal time to review this book.  It is so easy to become overwhelmed by our New Year's resolutions.  Where do we start?  That is where The Power of One Thing comes in!

Information + Insight + Action = Intentional Living

Information represents the facts of your situation.  Insight comes after prayerfully thinking through the problem.  Action is the "one thing" to commit to do to improve the situation.  This is a neat formula to tackle any problem.  Reminds me of the saying "How does a mice eat an elephant?  One bite at a time."

The Power of One Thing is in two parts:

Part One:  You Are Only "One Thing"  Away from a Better Life

Part Two:  It's Time to Start - Change Your Life One Thing at a Time

Part One focuses on gathering the information and identifying the steps needed to bring about change.  More precisely, that "one thing" you can begin to do or stop doing to bring about the change you desire.  The first "insight"  I gained was what it means to live intentionally.  Next was the confirmation that it IS important to know yourself, how you are wired as well as your strengths and weaknesses.  What pushes your buttons?  What motivates you?  It is equally important to get to know the important people in your life.  Do you know their thoughts, dreams, strengths, weaknesses?  What motivates the ones you love?   Last but never least is to know God, and understand His plans for your life.  You can do this by spending time in His presence, and getting to know Him through His Word.  (my interpretation)

Part Two is the "action" section.  In each chapter, Dr. Carlson presents nine roadblocks to living an intentional life: your thinking, your attitude, your emotions, your words, the use of your time, your friends, your clutter, the questions you ask and the decisions you make.  Each chapter gives practical advice and applications to implement the "one thing" you can do to begin change in your life. 

There is also a Discussion Guide available online http://www.tyndale.com/resources/details.asp?isbn=978-0-8423-8222-9 .  I found the Discussion Guide a valuable tool, and look forward to further study.

I would recommend this book to anyone desiring a life change, but not sure where to start.