Unconditional Don’t list
I’ve seen a lot of lists about things to do if you want to be successful, before you’re 30, etc. I’d figure a list of things of Don’t dos is just as important. The things we don’t do can prevent a lot of our troubles.
I was also inspired by Tim Ferriss’s list of not-to-do that I wanted to create my own.
This is a list of things that are unnegotiable principles I live by and have learned over the years.
- Don’t fill up your calendar with events to feel/look busy.
I’ve often put events on my calendar, but for 99% of them, it just takes away the time I should be spending on important things. I’ll end up justifying excuses for not wanting to go. I used to mentor college students each week until I realized that I was just doing it for mostly clout. They didn’t need to check in with me each week. Once we transitioned to meeting once every 3–4 months, they could not provide me with stories and questions that they’ve tested and now need more direction with.
2. Don’t keep doing something if it brings you no joy or skills.
There’s no shame in not continuing something if it robs you of happiness and wastes your time. My most recent example is reading a book that was on the New York Best Seller’s list, and it was an incredibly boring and repetitive book. I didn’t want to give up, but I no longer look forward to reading it. Reading is a passion of mine and if a book doesn’t give that sensation, it’s time to move on. This goes with jobs, friends, family, hobbies, and more — take the necessary action and cut out the “fat”.
The caveat is if you get skills from it. Some things can be really challenging and it makes you want to quit, but the skillset you get from it more than trumps the costs. An example is doing high-intensity cardio. I want to quit on most sessions, but the quality of life I get to sustain makes it worth the pain.
3. Don’t be an asshole.
Whether it’s meeting people for the first time, or walking away from a workplace, situation, or friends, it’s never worth it to burn that bridge. People remember you by how you make them feel. Try being genuinely interested in people’s passion and you’ll see it’ll go a long way.
4. Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know”.
You don’t need to justify or make a reason on why you don’t know something. Take the opportunity to learn, ask the “stupid questions”, and it might change your life.
Better to look foolish now than the rest of your life.
5. Don’t spend less money because it’ll save you a few dollars.
Spending money on things that will save you time, energy, and effort so you can allot it to other important things is always a great trade-off.
If you have the space or money, always get a bigger bed and pillow. It’s where you spend most of your time anyways, maximizing the benefits.
6. Don’t primarily be a taker.
Unselfishly help others, expect nothing back, and often it will lead to reciprocation and kindness. There are enough takers in the world, let’s focus on helping people. Most of the richest people I know are givers.
Don’t be a pushover giver as well. There’s a good balance between setting boundaries and still being able to help after you’ve taken care of your work.
7. Don’t sacrifice your integrity and values.
If you don’t set up moral boundaries, then anyone and anything can persuade you to do everything.
Once you start justifying the wrong things, they become normal and that’s when things start to spiral.
8. Don’t be forced to make a decision.
it’s typically never a good decision if someone forces you to make a decision then and there, or if you have limited time.
9. Don’t eat if you don’t have to.
You probably won’t starve to death if you didn’t have a snack or dessert. Life will be just fine even if you didn’t treat yourself after a long day. discipline leads to a healthier body and mind.
10. Don’t think you’re too good to do anything.
Regardless if you’re the boss or not, continue to do all of the dirty, or grunt work. It’s a good reminder that the little things matter and it’ll set a precedent that leaders of the organization take care of business, no matter how small.
Don’t wait to be told to do it, if it’s important, it should be done.
What else would you add to the list? How about your own list? Feel free to share!
Until next week,
Scott
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