I love a good to do list. There’s just something about getting all the stuff I need to do, out of my head and down on paper. I get a charge out of checking each one of those tasks off my list. As a matter of fact, I’ve been known to go back and add something that I did but didn’t have on my list so that I could check it off. A little bit odd – probably. But IYKYK. I can’t be the only one.
As much as I love my to do list, there is something even better – a not to do list.
As busy women, we often find ourselves buried under a mountain of tasks. Our to-do lists become never-ending, and instead of helping us reach our goals, they often leave us feeling overwhelmed and burned out.
It’s time to shift our perspective. Instead of focusing solely on what we need to do, let’s also consider what we should not do. Creating a “not to do” list can be a powerful tool to help us eliminate distractions, reduce stress, and align our lives more closely with God’s purpose for us.
Understanding the “Not To Do” List
A “not to do” list is exactly what it sounds like—a list of activities, habits, and commitments that we consciously choose to avoid. This list helps us identify and eliminate the non-essential tasks that take up our time and energy, allowing us to focus on what really matters. It’s about setting boundaries, prioritizing our well-being, and staying true to our God-given calling and assignment.
Biblical Principles for Creating Your “Not To Do” List
If having a not to do list sounds good to you, here are some things to keep in mind as you begin to prepare yours.
- Avoid Overcommitment
The Bible teaches us the importance of rest and balance. In Exodus 20:8-10, we are reminded of the Sabbath, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God.” Overcommitting ourselves can lead to exhaustion and burnout. We must learn to say no to additional commitments that stretch us beyond our limits.
- Eliminate Distractions
Hebrews 12:1 advises us to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
Distractions can derail our focus and delay our progress. Identify what distracts you – whether it’s excessive social media use, unnecessary meetings, or trivial tasks – and put them on your “not to do” list.
- Avoid Comparison
Galatians 6:4-5 says, “Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.” Comparing ourselves to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and discontent. Focus on your unique journey and avoid the trap of comparison which only steals your joy.
- Let Go of Perfectionism
In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us to find rest in Him. He say, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Perfectionism can be a heavy burden. Accept that you are enough as you are, and let go of the need to be perfect in everything you do. Remember, the goal is progress not perfection.
- Avoid Neglecting Self-Care
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. The verse says, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” Neglecting self-care can lead to physical and mental exhaustion. Prioritize activities that nourish your body, mind, and spirit.
Steps to Create Your “Not To Do” List
Ready to create your not to do list? Follow these simple and easy steps to write yours.
- Reflect on Your Priorities
Start by reflecting on your core values and priorities. What are the most important aspects of your life that align with your purpose? Identify the activities that support these priorities and those that do not. The 7 Pillars of Purposeful Living Assessment can help you with this. Get your free copy here. https://www.herrichlife.com/pillars
- Identify Timewasters
Take a close look at how you spend your time.
What activities consume a lot of your time but add little value to your life? These could include excessive social media scrolling, attending unnecessary meetings, or engaging in unproductive habits. Whatever they are, write them down.
- Set Boundaries
Learn to set healthy boundaries with your time and energy. Politely decline commitments that don’t align with your priorities. Remember, saying no to others is saying yes to yourself and your God-given calling.
I know that setting boundaries can be a struggle sometimes. But like any muscle, it gets stronger as you exercise it. So, set your boundaries and do not give up on them.
- Delegate and Automate
For a lot of high-achieving women, it is hard to ask for help. But you have to learn how because your purpose, calling, and assignment depends on it.
So, learn to delegate tasks that others can handle and automate repetitive tasks where possible. This will free up your time and mental space for more important activities.
- Reevaluate Regularly
Regularly reevaluate your “not to do” list to ensure it continues to serve your needs. As your life and priorities change, so should your list.
Don’t make your not to do list and forget about it. At least every quarter, review it and update as you need to.
Sample “Not To Do” List
Here’s a sample “not to do” list to get you started:
- Not Overcommitting: Avoid taking on more projects than you can handle.
- Not Checking Emails Constantly: Limit checking emails to specific times of the day.
- Not Comparing Yourself to Others: Focus on your unique journey and avoid comparison.
- Not Neglecting Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities like exercise, prayer, and rest.
- Not Multitasking: Focus on one task at a time for better productivity and quality.
- Not Saying Yes Out of Guilt: Only commit to things that align with your values and calling.
- Not Dwelling on Past Mistakes: Learn from them and move forward with grace.
Embracing Peace and Purpose
By creating a “not to do” list, you are taking an important step towards simplifying your life and aligning it more closely with your God-given calling.
Remember, it’s not about doing more, but about doing what matters most. As Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Embrace the peace that comes from letting go of what doesn’t serve you and focusing on what truly matters. Trust that as you seek God’s guidance and align your actions with His will, you will find the clarity and fulfillment you desire.
A “not to do” list can be a blessing to you. I will also help you to live a more purpose-driven, peaceful, and joy-filled life. So, write yours today!
