Tim Ferriss: Thin on Time? Use the “Not To-do” List

Published by David Spotts, June 7th, 2013

99U Tim Ferriss: Thin on Time? Use the “Not To-do” List

In addition to having a to-do list, it’s also very beneficial to create a list of activities and habits not to do. This way, you can start breaking bad habits in order to free up time and energy to focus on good habits and creative work. Bestselling author, entrepreneur, and angel investor Tim Ferriss writes:

‘Not-to-do’ lists are often more effective than to-do lists for upgrading performance. The reason is simple: what you don’t do determines what you can do.

Here’s his Not-to-do list:

1. Do not answer calls from unrecognized phone numbers

2. Do not e-mail first thing in the morning or last thing at night

3. Do not agree to meetings or calls with no clear agenda or end time

4. Do not let people ramble

5. Do not check e-mail constantly — “batch” and check at set times only

6. Do not over-communicate with low-profit, high-maintenance customers

7. Do not work more to fix overwhelm — prioritize

8. Do not carry a cellphone or “Crackberry” 24/7

9. Do not expect work to fill a void that non-work relationships and activities should

Ferriss’ list is a great starting point, but it’s also important to tailor your not-to-do list to you. Other not-to-do items can include not checking social networks till a certain time, or limiting the amount and type of media consumed throughout the day.

http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/The99Percent/~3/XqpvjqaQCVE/thin-on-time-use-the-not-todo-list

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David R. Spotts

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