The One Thing That Changes Everything

A few weeks ago, I had a one-hour follow-up appointment with a patient I’ve seen several times. He was doing exceptionally well—physically, emotionally, and professionally. During our conversation, he mentioned my social media platform, and I shared how much I despise it and how stressful it can be. Yet, I also told him how excited I am about releasing my next book soon in 2025.

At that moment, the roles of guide and student switched. He offered a candid, direct, and humbling assessment of what he believed I should be doing to reach a larger audience—and why I wasn’t doing it. By the end of the hour, I knew I had gained more from that appointment than he had. He spoke into my life with kindness, humility, and firmness. You know who you are, and I am deeply grateful. His words prompted me to re-evaluate my 2025 trajectory by reminding me of the The Secret of Life.

I may be dating myself, but in 1991, a movie called City Slickers, starring Billy Crystal, was released. A particular scene stood out to me, even then, at just 19 years old. In it, Billy’s character is riding a horse alongside a cowboy named Curly. Curly asks him, “Do you know what The Secret of Life is?” Then, he holds up a single finger and says, “It’s just ONE THING. Once you figure out that one thing, stick to it.”

Now, at 52, that scene resonates even more deeply. The secret of life is discovering your “gift” (your ONE THING) and sharing it - over and over again, every single day, as often as possible, without hesitation or fear.


So, I challenge each of you: Take one full day to identify or re-identify your ONE THING. Then, determine how to refine and share it repeatedly without hesitation or fear. That is 'The Secret of Life' by Curly, and a foundational piece to create optimal health.