Better than a thousand hollow words is one word that brings peace. - Buddha
Are words powerful?
NO.
Words have the potential to be powerful.
But, most words never reach their full potential.
That is because we aren't intentional about how we use them.
As the Buddha states in the above quote, one word can be more powerful than 1,000 words.
The Rule Of One
The Rule of One will help you create powerful words.
It will create emotion in those that you're talking to.
It will be the foundation of creating a movement that benefits the world.
But what is The Rule of One?
The Rule of One means that when speaking to somebody, you focus on 1 thing at a time.
1 message.
1 emotion.
1 core idea.
Whether it's the headline of your website, a letter to your friend, or a conversation with your spouse.
Focusing on 1 core thing will provide you the focus and clarity to communicate with power.
Every extra idea included in your message will diminish the strength of what you are trying to say.
"But Todd, there are sooo many things that I want to talk about!"
You're right.
There are a lot of things that you WANT to talk about.
That you CAN talk about.
DON'T.
Don't fall into this trap.
Let me prove this concept to you.
Nike's Messaging
Nike sells lots of different things.
There are many benefits and features of what Nike sells.
So why isn't their slogan "Just Do It: Comfy Shoes & Sports Gear That Make You An Athlete"
That slogan includes more features and benefits.
It's more specific.
It addresses the audience better.
But it doesn't hit the same as "JUST DO IT".
We think this is a silly example, but we make this mistake all the time.
We get excited to tell people about our product or service.
So we try and include everything.
Action Item
What I want you to do, is practice focusing on 1 thing.
Whether it's in the way you write, work, or spend time time with your family.
Find things every day that you can simplify into a single core idea.
It will change your website.
It will transform your marketing.
It will increase clarity in everything that you do.
Good Luck!
Todd
P.S. This is the number 1 rule taught by the best marketers in the world.
Books:
Great Leads - Michael Masterson
Ogilvy On Advertising - David Ogilvy
Breakthrough Advertising - Eugene Schwartz