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The Key to Everything: Unlocking the Secret to Why Some People Succeed and Others Don't
For two decades, pastor and leadership consultant Matt Keller has worked with hundreds of influencers, and he has learned that the greatest enhancer or greatest limiter to a person’s success is whether someone is teachable. In The Key to Everything, Keller shows how teachability isn’t something that some people are born with and others aren’t. It is a characteristic that can be learned and grown. In fact, the only way to succeed in life is to possess teachability in an ever-increasing fashion, and The Key to Everything reveals how to do just that.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2015
28 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 20, 2025
ATY 2025 Week 36.
★★★★½
A solid, insightful read on personal growth and leadership! Matt Keller argues convincingly that teachability—the willingness to learn and change—is the true key to unlocking success and reaching your potential. The book is packed with practical advice, biblical wisdom (especially drawing from Proverbs), and real-life stories that make it great mentoring material. My biggest takeaway? Committing to read a chapter of Proverbs every day to cultivate wisdom—that alone makes this worth it.
My only quibble: the word “teachability” gets hammered a bit too often, which felt repetitive at times. Still, it’s motivating and applicable for anyone in leadership or seeking growth. Perfect fit for my ATY 2025 challenge (a book with a common household object—a key!—on the cover). Recommended if you’re open to being… teachable! 😉
★★★★½
A solid, insightful read on personal growth and leadership! Matt Keller argues convincingly that teachability—the willingness to learn and change—is the true key to unlocking success and reaching your potential. The book is packed with practical advice, biblical wisdom (especially drawing from Proverbs), and real-life stories that make it great mentoring material. My biggest takeaway? Committing to read a chapter of Proverbs every day to cultivate wisdom—that alone makes this worth it.
My only quibble: the word “teachability” gets hammered a bit too often, which felt repetitive at times. Still, it’s motivating and applicable for anyone in leadership or seeking growth. Perfect fit for my ATY 2025 challenge (a book with a common household object—a key!—on the cover). Recommended if you’re open to being… teachable! 😉
January 14, 2018
You want success then you need teachability, its simple just crunch the numbers for the following equation and you'll find your level of teachability and then go from there my friends. "Your level of teachability=Desire to learn x willingness to change". Simple as that. As soon as I read this book, I wanted to become more teachable and I HAVE. Excellent book to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2015
This review originally appeared at InfluenceMagazine.com.
Matt Keller, The Key to Everything: Unlocking the Secret to Why Some People Succeed and Others Don’t (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2015). Hardcover | Kindle
To be honest, I’m not the kind of guy who reads books like The Key to Everything. For one thing, I prefer reading “theory” books to “practice” books. For another thing, I am wary of authors who promise simple answers to complex questions, let alone the key to everything.
Simplicity comes in at least two kinds, however. The first is synonymous with foolishness. In this sense, a simple person—a simpleton—lacks knowledge or expertise. The second kind pertains to science. In this sense, a simple formula can explain complex phenomena. Think of E=mc2 as an example.
Matt Keller’s book is simple in the second sense. He believes that teachability is the key to everything. “Without teachability,” he writes, “you and I will never reach our full potential or leave a mark on the world as we all desire to do.” He doesn’t discount the roles intelligence, hard work, or native genius play in achieving success, by the way. But he writes that “all the right stuff minus teachability equals the loss of tremendous potential.”
What is teachability? Keller borrows Roger Seip’s formula from Train Your Brain for Success: “Desire to learn times willingness to change equals our level of teachability.” If you desire to learn but are not willing to change, or if you are willing to change but don’t desire to learn, you have a low “teachability index.” The goal is to have a high one.
After defining teachability, Keller outlines common roadblocks to teachability: pride, fear, insecurity, pain, and pace. Keller uses the negative example of King Saul from the Old Testament to illustrate these roadblocks. He then goes on to use the apostle Paul from the New Testament to illustrate positive characteristics of teachability:
insatiable desire to learn and grow
appropriate view of success
openness to feedback
flexible approach to life
ability to handle failure well
Keller concludes his book with guidance about how to develop a lifestyle of teachability. “Teachability is not something we can develop from a single session or a simple intention. It doesn’t develop in spurts and starts.” Rather, he writes: “True teachability is a lifestyle—and it takes practice.”
Matt Keller is a Christian pastor and leadership coach, so most of his readers will be fellow pastors or leaders of parachurch ministries. Though his book refers to the Bible, Christian business professionals can safely use it as a coaching tool in secular environments too.
The Key to Everything is a short, easy read. Don’t let those characteristics fool you, however. Keller is on to something. Whether teachability is the key to everything, I still can’t say. But it is the key to quite a lot. As Proverbs 4:7 puts it: “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost you all, get understanding.”
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P.S. If you found my review helpful, please vote “Yes” on my Amazon.com review page.
Matt Keller, The Key to Everything: Unlocking the Secret to Why Some People Succeed and Others Don’t (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2015). Hardcover | Kindle
To be honest, I’m not the kind of guy who reads books like The Key to Everything. For one thing, I prefer reading “theory” books to “practice” books. For another thing, I am wary of authors who promise simple answers to complex questions, let alone the key to everything.
Simplicity comes in at least two kinds, however. The first is synonymous with foolishness. In this sense, a simple person—a simpleton—lacks knowledge or expertise. The second kind pertains to science. In this sense, a simple formula can explain complex phenomena. Think of E=mc2 as an example.
Matt Keller’s book is simple in the second sense. He believes that teachability is the key to everything. “Without teachability,” he writes, “you and I will never reach our full potential or leave a mark on the world as we all desire to do.” He doesn’t discount the roles intelligence, hard work, or native genius play in achieving success, by the way. But he writes that “all the right stuff minus teachability equals the loss of tremendous potential.”
What is teachability? Keller borrows Roger Seip’s formula from Train Your Brain for Success: “Desire to learn times willingness to change equals our level of teachability.” If you desire to learn but are not willing to change, or if you are willing to change but don’t desire to learn, you have a low “teachability index.” The goal is to have a high one.
After defining teachability, Keller outlines common roadblocks to teachability: pride, fear, insecurity, pain, and pace. Keller uses the negative example of King Saul from the Old Testament to illustrate these roadblocks. He then goes on to use the apostle Paul from the New Testament to illustrate positive characteristics of teachability:
insatiable desire to learn and grow
appropriate view of success
openness to feedback
flexible approach to life
ability to handle failure well
Keller concludes his book with guidance about how to develop a lifestyle of teachability. “Teachability is not something we can develop from a single session or a simple intention. It doesn’t develop in spurts and starts.” Rather, he writes: “True teachability is a lifestyle—and it takes practice.”
Matt Keller is a Christian pastor and leadership coach, so most of his readers will be fellow pastors or leaders of parachurch ministries. Though his book refers to the Bible, Christian business professionals can safely use it as a coaching tool in secular environments too.
The Key to Everything is a short, easy read. Don’t let those characteristics fool you, however. Keller is on to something. Whether teachability is the key to everything, I still can’t say. But it is the key to quite a lot. As Proverbs 4:7 puts it: “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost you all, get understanding.”
-----
P.S. If you found my review helpful, please vote “Yes” on my Amazon.com review page.
September 29, 2015
Unlocking Your Door to Success
The Key to Everything by Matt Keller
—If you’re willing to discover the key to everything—you’ve already found it.
Do you get tired of others succeeding around you and wonder why you can’t catch a break? What’s their secret and why don’t they share it?
What if I told you the key was right in front of you?
In his book The Key to Everything, Pastor Matt Keller explains what’s missing in our success stories.
It’s teachability.
Huh?
I know. I get what you’re thinking. I reacted the same way, but this book came to me right at the perfect time in my life. I was seeing others around me get their “break” and thought it was my turn. The Key to Everything was an encouragement to me.
Mr. Keller describes what teachability is all about with two words—desire and willingness. They go hand in hand. “You can desire something all day long, but unless there is a willingness within you to do something about it, you’ll never change or get better.”
Part 1 of this book talks about the “Roadblocks to Teachability” – these were eye-openers to me. For me the one that hit home was insecurity. Feeling inferior, like an imposter, incapable, and unworthy. Check to all. I began to wonder if the author was reading my mind!
Another huge roadblock is the pace of our lives. I loved this quote, “Everything good in life, including teachability, lives and grows in the margins. And an unhealthy pace eliminates the margins in our lives.” How true is that? Our lives are full to the brim and overflowing because we’re so busy! We have no white space left.
In Part 2, Mr. Keller speaks about the “Characteristics of Teachability.” He looks at five different traits, using King Saul as a reference to bring his points into clearer focus. This is done effectively.
In the conclusion of the book, Part 3, the author gives us some sound advice on “Developing a Lifestyle of Teachability.” In these chapters he gives tips and strategies.
The Key to Everything is well written and easy to read. I loved the humor throughout and especially in the footnotes at the end of each chapter. This is a book you can read in one sitting or one chapter a day. Mr. Keller encourages you to read one a day. In conclusion, I’ll leave you with this quote from the book.
Teachability is a choice
Teachability is possible.
And teachability is essential to getting where you most want to go in life.
I give The Key to Everything – you guessed it – FIVE keys! It will unlock your success.
You just have to be willing to open the door.
P.S. Be sure to read the “Thank-You Notes” at the end. They’re entertaining!
**Book has been provided courtesy of The Blog Spot and Thomas Nelson Publishing for an honest review.
The Key to Everything by Matt Keller
—If you’re willing to discover the key to everything—you’ve already found it.
Do you get tired of others succeeding around you and wonder why you can’t catch a break? What’s their secret and why don’t they share it?
What if I told you the key was right in front of you?
In his book The Key to Everything, Pastor Matt Keller explains what’s missing in our success stories.
It’s teachability.
Huh?
I know. I get what you’re thinking. I reacted the same way, but this book came to me right at the perfect time in my life. I was seeing others around me get their “break” and thought it was my turn. The Key to Everything was an encouragement to me.
Mr. Keller describes what teachability is all about with two words—desire and willingness. They go hand in hand. “You can desire something all day long, but unless there is a willingness within you to do something about it, you’ll never change or get better.”
Part 1 of this book talks about the “Roadblocks to Teachability” – these were eye-openers to me. For me the one that hit home was insecurity. Feeling inferior, like an imposter, incapable, and unworthy. Check to all. I began to wonder if the author was reading my mind!
Another huge roadblock is the pace of our lives. I loved this quote, “Everything good in life, including teachability, lives and grows in the margins. And an unhealthy pace eliminates the margins in our lives.” How true is that? Our lives are full to the brim and overflowing because we’re so busy! We have no white space left.
In Part 2, Mr. Keller speaks about the “Characteristics of Teachability.” He looks at five different traits, using King Saul as a reference to bring his points into clearer focus. This is done effectively.
In the conclusion of the book, Part 3, the author gives us some sound advice on “Developing a Lifestyle of Teachability.” In these chapters he gives tips and strategies.
The Key to Everything is well written and easy to read. I loved the humor throughout and especially in the footnotes at the end of each chapter. This is a book you can read in one sitting or one chapter a day. Mr. Keller encourages you to read one a day. In conclusion, I’ll leave you with this quote from the book.
Teachability is a choice
Teachability is possible.
And teachability is essential to getting where you most want to go in life.
I give The Key to Everything – you guessed it – FIVE keys! It will unlock your success.
You just have to be willing to open the door.
P.S. Be sure to read the “Thank-You Notes” at the end. They’re entertaining!
**Book has been provided courtesy of The Blog Spot and Thomas Nelson Publishing for an honest review.
September 29, 2015
Matt Keller’s new book, The Key to Everything, lays out the journey of developing the foundation for success. He reveals our most vital trait for prosperous living–teachability. At first, the premise seemed to oversimplify life. I’m an avid learner, but knowledge hasn’t fattened my bank account. The book reveals how teachability reflects more than an appetite for learning. It’s a lifestyle choice. Despite my initial concern, the book examines the intricacies of reshaping human nature.
Developing teachability involves a complex process of character transformation. The Key to Everything breaks this down into three parts. The first section identifies five major roadblocks. Chapters encourage readers to break down obstacles and pursue success. Keller includes personal experiences, as if drawing up a chair to chat with his audience over coffee. He sprinkles in quotable wisdom nuggets such as, “Playing it safe is never safe where your dreams are concerned.”
The second portion defines the five central characteristics of a teachable person. Keller delivers frequent calls to action to promote cultivation of these traits. His talents as a pastor and leadership coach shine from the page as he invites readers along on a heartfelt journey. He addresses the audience with compassion while challenging them to grow. “Don’t write off feedback from people you don’t happen to like . . . If you find it difficult to separate the message from the messenger, try thinking to yourself, ‘If this was coming from my best friend, how open to hearing it would I be?'”
The concluding section maps out five ways to foster a teachable lifestyle. Keller offers brilliant insights such as, “A person with great strengths and weak character is dangerous.” This flavorful book serves a powerful concept to a broad range of readers. Business people, volunteers, community members. Those in ministry as well as those who wouldn’t darken a church door. Keller includes Biblical references as case studies, rendering cozy stories readable by believers and non-believers alike.
The Key to Everything makes an enormous promise and delivers on it with style. Keller seasons his conversational writing with humor. I’m grateful for this refreshing read amid the musty shelves of dull self-help books. I recommend Matt Keller’s delightful writing and vital content with confidence.
Developing teachability involves a complex process of character transformation. The Key to Everything breaks this down into three parts. The first section identifies five major roadblocks. Chapters encourage readers to break down obstacles and pursue success. Keller includes personal experiences, as if drawing up a chair to chat with his audience over coffee. He sprinkles in quotable wisdom nuggets such as, “Playing it safe is never safe where your dreams are concerned.”
The second portion defines the five central characteristics of a teachable person. Keller delivers frequent calls to action to promote cultivation of these traits. His talents as a pastor and leadership coach shine from the page as he invites readers along on a heartfelt journey. He addresses the audience with compassion while challenging them to grow. “Don’t write off feedback from people you don’t happen to like . . . If you find it difficult to separate the message from the messenger, try thinking to yourself, ‘If this was coming from my best friend, how open to hearing it would I be?'”
The concluding section maps out five ways to foster a teachable lifestyle. Keller offers brilliant insights such as, “A person with great strengths and weak character is dangerous.” This flavorful book serves a powerful concept to a broad range of readers. Business people, volunteers, community members. Those in ministry as well as those who wouldn’t darken a church door. Keller includes Biblical references as case studies, rendering cozy stories readable by believers and non-believers alike.
The Key to Everything makes an enormous promise and delivers on it with style. Keller seasons his conversational writing with humor. I’m grateful for this refreshing read amid the musty shelves of dull self-help books. I recommend Matt Keller’s delightful writing and vital content with confidence.
November 3, 2015
We all want success, Keller writes. And what matters first is teachability. It's the key to everything. We find out near the end of the book that wisdom and teachability are two sides of the same coin and that wisdom is the secret weapon to success. (163)
“Because of the increasing rate of speed at which our world is moving today and the overwhelming volume of change happening on a daily basis, teachability will be the only way for you to succeed in the next half century.” (xvi-xvii)
Keller argues that without teachability, there is a pretty good chance you will never reach your potential, never see your dreams come true. From his own experience he writes, “I have observed that teachability is hands down the greatest enhancer or greatest limiter to a person's success.” (xx)
He explores what teachability is, including desire and willingness, for example. He then looks at the roadblocks, like pride, fear, and insecurity. He reveals the characteristics of teachability, such as an insatiable desire to learn and the ability to fail well. He shows how teachability is developed into a lifestyle.
To illustrate his principles, he gives himself as an example many times. He also includes other modern day examples and examples from the Bible, such as Saul and Paul.
Interestingly enough, Keller writes, “When it comes to success, everything we achieve could be gone tomorrow.” (104) That was a shout to me and I was hoping he would write about the kind of success for which we should be working. But it was not to be.
I would recommend this book to those who know what their dream is and how they would define their success. “Teachability is the only path to the life you dream of living.” (192) There is no help here in determining what kind of dream you should have or how you should define your success. If you fail understand why you are not achieving the success you desire, this book will have some insight for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
“Because of the increasing rate of speed at which our world is moving today and the overwhelming volume of change happening on a daily basis, teachability will be the only way for you to succeed in the next half century.” (xvi-xvii)
Keller argues that without teachability, there is a pretty good chance you will never reach your potential, never see your dreams come true. From his own experience he writes, “I have observed that teachability is hands down the greatest enhancer or greatest limiter to a person's success.” (xx)
He explores what teachability is, including desire and willingness, for example. He then looks at the roadblocks, like pride, fear, and insecurity. He reveals the characteristics of teachability, such as an insatiable desire to learn and the ability to fail well. He shows how teachability is developed into a lifestyle.
To illustrate his principles, he gives himself as an example many times. He also includes other modern day examples and examples from the Bible, such as Saul and Paul.
Interestingly enough, Keller writes, “When it comes to success, everything we achieve could be gone tomorrow.” (104) That was a shout to me and I was hoping he would write about the kind of success for which we should be working. But it was not to be.
I would recommend this book to those who know what their dream is and how they would define their success. “Teachability is the only path to the life you dream of living.” (192) There is no help here in determining what kind of dream you should have or how you should define your success. If you fail understand why you are not achieving the success you desire, this book will have some insight for you.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
July 31, 2018
Are you truly “teachable” and what does that look like? Matt urges us to change our mindset about only learning from those who have obtained more than us in life. We can really learn from anyone. However, If you still really want to learn from a guru in your field don’t be afraid to reach out to them and pay them well for an hour of their time. Make sure if you sit down with Dave Ramsey (or your guru) that you have 86 well thought out questions to ask them. Remember to ask your question and then shut up so you can learn! Keller goes on to write about different ways of receiving mentoring or learning opportunities. You can listen to podcasts, surround yourself with others, and reach out to a “guru” you’d like to learn from. Just make sure to do your research before you sit down with them for an hour. This book is hilarious and provides a few freebies if you can make to the end of the book. Hint: the freebies and jokes are mostly in the notes section at the end of each chapter.
November 13, 2024
This was pretty solid. Sometimes with books that are written by a pastor or cleric of some kind, there is a tendency to delve so much into the spiritual side that it feels like a sermon as opposed to a non-fiction, self-help, motivational book. This one does not do that at all.
Keller is a fun writer with some cool and humorous anecdotal stories sprinkled in. It makes for an enjoyable experience. He jumps right into it when talking about successful people, and he defines success beyond just financial success, the "Key" is to remain teachable. He coins the word, "teachability" as a characteristic and trait to always being open to learning, regardless of the situation. This doesn't mean you void all of your prior beliefs.
Often, we only want to learn from someone more experienced that us. Well, he shows that misses so many opportunities to grow. Don't look at it as a hierarchal system. We can (and do) learn from everyone, if we just pay attention and get our biases out of our own way. I've never thought "teachability" to be a bad thing, but this book demystifies the term and explains how to develop this trait and apply it for a lifetime.
The first thing for all of us to do is be deliberate and cognizant of any teachability/learning opportunities. I feel that most hurdles are our own doing with our ego. Once we recognize we ourselves have great insight, and so do many others, you don't feel insecure of asking anyone to further explain something.
Another section I really liked was nearing the end, he discusses how to seek out opportunities from people we want to learn from and ask questions. Even better yet, he discusses being always mentally prepared to ask open ended questions so you don't miss an opportunity during any chance encounter. Pretty cool stuff. Just think of all the things you want to know better, or learn more about, and prep who may know more, and prep questions. Make it a habit, and you really have something!
I did this as an audio book, and it will be one I'm on the lookout for at discount retailer to own and re-read. Give this a try.
Keller is a fun writer with some cool and humorous anecdotal stories sprinkled in. It makes for an enjoyable experience. He jumps right into it when talking about successful people, and he defines success beyond just financial success, the "Key" is to remain teachable. He coins the word, "teachability" as a characteristic and trait to always being open to learning, regardless of the situation. This doesn't mean you void all of your prior beliefs.
Often, we only want to learn from someone more experienced that us. Well, he shows that misses so many opportunities to grow. Don't look at it as a hierarchal system. We can (and do) learn from everyone, if we just pay attention and get our biases out of our own way. I've never thought "teachability" to be a bad thing, but this book demystifies the term and explains how to develop this trait and apply it for a lifetime.
The first thing for all of us to do is be deliberate and cognizant of any teachability/learning opportunities. I feel that most hurdles are our own doing with our ego. Once we recognize we ourselves have great insight, and so do many others, you don't feel insecure of asking anyone to further explain something.
Another section I really liked was nearing the end, he discusses how to seek out opportunities from people we want to learn from and ask questions. Even better yet, he discusses being always mentally prepared to ask open ended questions so you don't miss an opportunity during any chance encounter. Pretty cool stuff. Just think of all the things you want to know better, or learn more about, and prep who may know more, and prep questions. Make it a habit, and you really have something!
I did this as an audio book, and it will be one I'm on the lookout for at discount retailer to own and re-read. Give this a try.
May 30, 2018
I thought this book was good. I took lots of notes that I"ll be referring back to. It seems well organized -- focusing on roadbloacks first, addressing solutions and remedies. Lots of good advice for growing and living well, yet it seems very overwhelming to try to integrate it into your life--finding and following up with mentors regularly, spending quiet time, checking your goals. All can lead to growth, they just seem like daunting demands--which will then lead to more demands because after the conferences you have, you then need to set new goals and work toward them-- on top of a busy life.
October 18, 2021
The Key to Everything... teachable moments in life and career are highlighted by encouraging ways for people to become more teachable and constantly learning and seeking growth and knowledge. Christian book offers some spiritual and biblical based advice, applicable for students, teachers, employees, bosses, parents, and peers.
January 5, 2017
This book is a must for anyone looking to achieve success in any area of his or her life.
"Your success depends on it, and your future resides within it."
If you are curious to what the key to everything is, read this book! You will not be disappointed.
"Your success depends on it, and your future resides within it."
If you are curious to what the key to everything is, read this book! You will not be disappointed.
July 12, 2021
The author highlights the importance of teachability, although it may not need to be a full book and the link to the Bible at times seems like a stretch. It contains some good wisdom, yet at times rather shallow.
June 26, 2022
This one was alright. It was another case of a short concept stretched over too many pages. I would rather dictate the concept to someone rather than recommend the book. The key to everything? Maybe--one of several keys on your keyring that will broaden your success, more accurately.
March 12, 2021
I would give it 3.5 stars. The book is about teachability which I found to be spot on.
August 2, 2021
The idea is there, but weak arguments and examples. Quick read.
December 28, 2023
Excellent read with this stunning statement: “Pride is what makes us think the rules don’t apply to us.” It is worth reading.
October 18, 2024
nice as a motivational book.
(the title hints a bit at manifestation, but it's not...i like it even more like this, the book is about trying to do work for real)
(the title hints a bit at manifestation, but it's not...i like it even more like this, the book is about trying to do work for real)
October 12, 2015
Have you ever read a book and, when you finished the last page, said to yourself, “I wish I’d read this years ago”?
The Key to Everything by Matt Keller is that kind of book for me.
(Disclaimer: I received an advance copy through my literary agency, who also represents Mr. Keller, in exchange for reading and reviewing it. I was not required to give a positive review).
If this book had been released ten years ago, five years ago, or even a year ago, I’m certain my life would be better.
I’ve always considered myself a life-learner. It’s one of the qualities that attracted my wife to me and is still one of the things she likes most about me. But from the very first chapter, Keller showed me there are more ways to grow that I hadn’t yet discovered.
Keller’s key to everything is teachability, and the book is built on two words that capture true teachability—desire and willingness. Being teachable comes down to wanting to grow and being willing to do whatever it takes to grow.
I read The Key to Everything like its author suggested—a chapter or two a day. The book is organized into three sections: Roadblocks to Teachability, The Characteristics of Teachability, and Developing a Lifestyle of Teachability. Each section contains five succinct chapters chock full of principles, examples, and application tips.
I allowed Matt’s words to sink in and do their intended work in my mind. As I did this, I experienced immediate impact on my thinking and self-awareness.
I saw where my level of willingness to grow was lower than my desire in areas critical to fulfilling my life dreams and goals.
I saw two roadblocks to my teachability at work in me—the fear of rejection and the fear of criticism. Keller’s insights helped me see that my skin wasn’t as thick as I thought it was and, more importantly, I was putting my hope and trust in the wrong places.
He also pointed out an issue with which I wasn’t in touch—rejecting input from people who I don’t think know as much about a particular topic as I do.
Ouch.
Keller helped me recall moments in my life when I’ve closed myself off to others and how I was poorer for having done so.
The Key to Everything will shape a new generation of thinkers and doers. Matt Keller has given the world a self-revealing and well-crafted gift. If you want to grow and are willing to do the work, The Key to Everything will launch you on a lifelong path to fulfilling your purpose and destiny.
The Key to Everything by Matt Keller is that kind of book for me.
(Disclaimer: I received an advance copy through my literary agency, who also represents Mr. Keller, in exchange for reading and reviewing it. I was not required to give a positive review).
If this book had been released ten years ago, five years ago, or even a year ago, I’m certain my life would be better.
I’ve always considered myself a life-learner. It’s one of the qualities that attracted my wife to me and is still one of the things she likes most about me. But from the very first chapter, Keller showed me there are more ways to grow that I hadn’t yet discovered.
Keller’s key to everything is teachability, and the book is built on two words that capture true teachability—desire and willingness. Being teachable comes down to wanting to grow and being willing to do whatever it takes to grow.
I read The Key to Everything like its author suggested—a chapter or two a day. The book is organized into three sections: Roadblocks to Teachability, The Characteristics of Teachability, and Developing a Lifestyle of Teachability. Each section contains five succinct chapters chock full of principles, examples, and application tips.
I allowed Matt’s words to sink in and do their intended work in my mind. As I did this, I experienced immediate impact on my thinking and self-awareness.
I saw where my level of willingness to grow was lower than my desire in areas critical to fulfilling my life dreams and goals.
I saw two roadblocks to my teachability at work in me—the fear of rejection and the fear of criticism. Keller’s insights helped me see that my skin wasn’t as thick as I thought it was and, more importantly, I was putting my hope and trust in the wrong places.
He also pointed out an issue with which I wasn’t in touch—rejecting input from people who I don’t think know as much about a particular topic as I do.
Ouch.
Keller helped me recall moments in my life when I’ve closed myself off to others and how I was poorer for having done so.
The Key to Everything will shape a new generation of thinkers and doers. Matt Keller has given the world a self-revealing and well-crafted gift. If you want to grow and are willing to do the work, The Key to Everything will launch you on a lifelong path to fulfilling your purpose and destiny.
October 1, 2015
Matt Keller brings his humor and candor to the table in his newest book. He shares the concept of teachability which leads to wisdom and understanding. It's not like a regular self help book. It's a road map to success. Using biblical and well as practical steps, Matt lays out all the steps to success in every aspect of your life. Are there roadblocks to learning that you have placed in your life? Do you need to know how to rekindle that desire for wisdom? What are the characteristics of a good learner? What questions should you ask as you seek after wisdom? All the answers and so much more are in this fantastic book. A great resource for employees, ministries, teenagers getting ready to head out into the world, and the perfect Christmas gift for that person who thinks they have it all.
August 1, 2018
I love my pastor, and this book is a life-changer. In different seasons of our work, life and relationships we have unique challenges and roadblocks which hinder our growth. These areas are navigated, hurdled and hopefully dismantled according to our willingness to press in and become or remain teachable. It's not a one time around the track thing, it's round and round deepening our understanding of who we are, and who God is. If I think I've dealt with pain, pride, pace before... yep, and I'll deal with it again.
July 7, 2016
This book is full of simple, straightforward wisdom presented in an understandable, encouraging way. Keller provides a depth of wisdom gained through his years of experience and motivates the reader to apply it without being preachy or condescending. As I read I nodded and thought, "wow this is GOOD. So right on!" I've never thought "teachability" to be a bad thing, but this book demystifies the term and explains how to develop this trait and apply it for a lifetime. I will be re-reading!
January 25, 2017
Pastor Matt is an incredible communicator. This book is a page turner with important leadership values on every page. It is so important to know your road blocks... what is keeping you from growing, pain, pace, something you may still need to discover? This is more than a self-help book for a certain situation, it will inspire you to take down those road blocks and keep growing for a lifetime!
February 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spoiler he tells you what the key to everything is in the first chapter, it’s teachability! How to be reachable around every person you come in contact with. Be willing to learn and never think yourself arrived. Very good book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2016
meh..not good, not bad.
December 13, 2016
Filed under, Wish I'd Read that 20 years ago.
January 4, 2017
Teachability. That's the key.
March 27, 2017
This is a fabulous book! The writing is current and relevant, and the techniques are easy to understand. His idea of being teachable is what others call being coachable. Highly recommended!
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