Your to-do list is a liar.
It whispers that if you can just check off one more item, you’ll finally feel in control. But the list is infinite. For every task you complete, three more appear. The truth is, the secret to getting the right things done isn’t adding more—it’s actively subtracting.
Enter the ‘not-to-do’ list.
This isn’t about avoidance. It’s a strategic tool for setting boundaries and protecting your most valuable resources: your time, energy, and focus. It’s a set of pre-made decisions that eliminate decision fatigue and keep you aligned with your vision.
Your ‘not-to-do list’ is a declaration of what you will no longer tolerate, including:
- Checking email first thing in the morning.
- Saying “yes” to agenda-less meetings.
- Mindlessly scrolling social media between tasks.
- Offering discounts on your services out of fear.
- Answering non-urgent client emails after 6 PM.
Every item on your ‘not-to-do list’ creates space for the deep, meaningful work that actually moves the needle. It’s the most powerful productivity tool that no one talks about. It’s not about doing less; it’s about creating the space to do more of what matters.
Actionable Nurturing Step: Grab a notebook. Write “Not-To-Do List” at the top. Add at least three things you will stop doing, starting today.
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Of course when I read this -I thought of the IDNC lady with her notebook and yellow marker. She just makes me giggle. Your NOT TO DO LIST so much more impactful. A great reminder.
Of course when I read this -I thought of the IDNC lady with her notebook and yellow marker. She just makes me giggle. Your NOT TO DO LIST so much more impactful. A great reminder.
I have always used a To Do list. sometimes it is overwhelming when my day is over with some activities still pending. I will start using a Not To Do List. I am sure it is going to give me a relieve.
Having a Not-To-Do list is such a powerful tool. Lately I have limited my social media scrolling and it has given me so much time back and cleared up a lot of mental energy.
Kim, this is brilliant, and I will share it on LinkedIn. My boundaries are the best they have ever been, and I’m pleased with that. But a not-to-do-list makes me laugh and think and pick up a pen. Thanks!
Kim, I commented a few minutes ago, but I don’t see my comment, so this may be a duplicate: this is brilliant! I’ve been working on boundaries for a long time and benefitting. But your NTDList makes me laugh and reach for my pen.