From Reddit:
We’ve all familiar with creating a to-do list to increase our productivity. Another list which can jumpstart our productivity is the not-do list - things we shouldn’t do. By being conscious of what to avoid, it’ll automatically channel our energy into things that we want to do.
Trying to do everything
Not all tasks are equal. Each task has its own importance. In fact by the 80/20 rule, 20% of the tasks on our to-do list account for 80% of the value. Keep only the absolute important things and let go of the rest.
Answering all emails (or calls and messages for that matter)
It’s not necessary to answer all the emails, we cannot respond to all of them except the highest priorities email that’s helping you to grow. Most of the emails contains same format, reply them all with automation.
Thinking you have to do everything immediately
Apart from to-do list and not-do-list, we also should have a do-later list. This is to collect the items that drop in mid-way through the day, usually administrative, nitty gritty that don’t take much time.
Putting important tasks off
Procrastination is the mind killer. It may seem like a good idea to put off the task now, but that’s just setting yourself for a jam later on, and it’s not worth it. Get started on your most important projects now and stop putting them off.
Trying to get things perfect the first time round
It’s the perfectionist in us that causes many of us to procrastinate. If the perfectionist side of you is hindering you from getting things done in the first place, that’s something you should look into.
Being hung up over details
Being details oriented is good. Don’t be obsessed with details that it holds you back. Does this matter a year from now? 3 years from now? 5 years ? If not, then maybe it’s not worth worrying so much about it now. Go for the bigger picture.
Not having clear goals
Do you know you goals for this month? How about you goals for this year? And the next year? If you can answer these 3 questions with absolute certainty and conciseness, then you’re good to go. Otherwise, perhaps it’s good to spend time 2 think over them
Not taking breaks
Our mind cannot take a burden to work 24/7 hours. We need to rest and recharge. Don’t stress your brain over and over again without breaks, it’s unhealthy and unproductive.
Trying to please everyone
“Trying to get everyone to like you is a sign of mediocrity” - Colin Powell You’re never going to be able to control what others think, so don’t spend too much time sweating over it.