3 Secrets That Make or Break Any Team: What the New One Minute Manager Teaches Us

What separates a thriving team from one that struggles? According to The New One Minute Manager, it comes down to three simple secrets—secrets that are backed by decades of research and proven in organizations around the world. Whether you’re leading a project, managing a classroom, or just trying to get your family moving in the same direction, these habits will help you create the kind of environment where everyone can win.

Secret #1: One Minute Goals

Teams work best when everyone knows what success looks like. The One Minute Manager teaches that setting three to five clear, concise goals—and reviewing them daily—eliminates confusion and keeps everyone aligned. These goals aren’t long-winded documents; they’re short, actionable statements that fit on a single page. When goals are clear, people can manage themselves, adjust quickly, and feel confident about their progress.

Example: A tech startup implemented daily goal reviews using the One Minute approach. Within months, productivity soared and missed deadlines dropped by 40%.

Secret #2: One Minute Praisings

Recognition is the fuel of high performance. The book shows that catching people doing things right—and letting them know, immediately and specifically—builds trust, motivation, and loyalty. Praisings don’t have to be grand gestures; a quick note, a kind word, or a public shout-out can make all the difference. Over time, this habit creates a culture where people look for the good in each other and celebrate progress together.

Secret #3: One Minute Re-Directs

Mistakes are inevitable, but how you handle them determines your team’s future. The One Minute Manager’s approach is to address issues quickly, privately, and with compassion. The focus is always on the behavior, not the person. This helps people learn from errors without feeling attacked or demoralized. As a result, teams become more resilient, creative, and open to feedback.

Example: A hospital used One Minute Re-Directs to reduce medical errors. Staff reported feeling safer and more supported, leading to better patient outcomes and higher job satisfaction.

Putting It All Together

When these three secrets are practiced together, the results are remarkable. Teams become more agile, engaged, and productive. Turnover drops, innovation rises, and people genuinely enjoy coming to work. The New One Minute Manager’s formula is simple, but its impact is profound. Start by trying just one secret today, and watch how your team transforms.

Sources: Readingraphics, Wrike blog, real-world case studies, LinkedIn reviews 1 4 2