New Year’s Resolution: Make a ‘Not-to-Do’ List

As the New Year approaches, we often focus on setting goals for what we want to accomplish or add to our lives. But what if, instead of creating a list of things to do, we committed to what not to do?

?In my years of working with clients, I've noticed a pattern: we pile on more goals, more to-dos, and more expectations for the future, rarely taking time to clear the plate. As a result, we often feel overwhelmed rather than inspired.

By making a “Not-to-Do” list, you can start the year with intention and clarity. Removing unnecessary commitments, habits, or mindsets creates space for the things that truly matter and allows you to focus on goals you can realistically achieve.

Why a ‘Not-to-Do’ List?

Setting “not-to-dos” helps us cut through distractions, identify what drains us, and focus on what’s actually important. It can be as simple as avoiding low-priority tasks that pull attention away from your main objectives or letting go of habits that no longer serve you. When we lighten the load, we open ourselves to opportunities and a clear sense of direction—empowering us to achieve goals we’re genuinely passionate about.

Steps to Create Your “Not-to-Do” List:

1. Reflect on What’s Holding You Back: Think about tasks, commitments, or habits that add stress without providing value. What things do you keep saying “yes” to that don’t align with your true priorities?
2. Define What to Let Go: Choose a few “not-to-dos” that will make the biggest difference in your life. This might mean reducing social media time, saying “no” to projects that don’t align with your goals, or removing perfectionist tendencies that slow you down.
3. Set Boundaries: Practice saying “no” or putting limits around your time and energy. Boundaries help you stick to your “not-to-do” list and prevent you from falling back into old habits.
4. Celebrate What You Gain: Notice how much time, energy, and mental clarity you gain by letting go. When you’re not constantly “doing,” you create space for creativity, rest, and new, meaningful opportunities.

Embrace the Freedom of a Clear Path

By clearing your plate and making a “Not-to-Do” list, you’ll enter the New Year focused, light, and ready for what truly matters. This approach brings a fresh perspective, helping you achieve more by doing less. Instead of feeling burdened by a long list of resolutions, you’ll find that clearing space allows the right goals to flourish naturally, in their own time. This year, make room for what you really want by letting go of what you don’t.

What’s one thing you’d like to take off your plate this year to create more clarity and focus? What difference do you think it could make in your life?