A list of things ‘not-to-do’ is a super effective way to get more done.
I have some bad habits. You know, stuff I choose to do when I should be getting real work done. A not-to-do list helps me focus. It includes all the stuff that distracts me. The stuff I should not do.
If you want to be more efficient and get more done. Consider starting a ‘not-to-do’ list today. It will take less than 5 mins to make and could save you hours everyday.
A few things from my list that might get you started:
- Don’t eat lunch on the job. A short break and fresh air helps me focus.
- Don’t check email more than 2 x day. If something urgent is happening, I’ll get a call.
- Don’t be constantly logged in to facebook. You can lose hours on FB, Again, if something urgent is happening, I’ll get a call.
- Don’t agree to meetings or calls without an agenda. A clear objective and a planned duration of less than 30 mins is best for me.
My no-to-do list works. But it’s taken a lot of discipline. Just like sharing your dreams, sharing your not-to-do list with your boss or workmate might help you stick to it. Start today and if you make it work, I promise you’ll find at least any extra hour in every day.
NB - Unlike a to-do list, you don’t need a new not-to-do list everyday. One not-to-do list may just do for the next 5 years.