The Won't Do List

For far too long I had buried myself with endless To-Do’s and tasks. Believing that if I could just get them done, then I could rest and relax.

So, over the years, I continued to fear where I was still missing out, until I was told to commit to one goal and say ‘No’ to everything else.

It was good for a time, but then I would find myself right back where I’d started. Old habits crept in and I needed a lens to separate intuitive freedom from fodder.

It was then that I devised the cleverest list; one with enough power to free me from others. Once I held it, I saw my key to withdraw; armed with a clear path to recover.

This list would contain, amongst many themes, the things that I would not do. And in my desk chair, I sat there and stared; growing restless to now see it through.

I would not replace that busted light switch, nor would I go buy a new broom.

I would not apply stain to the patchy back fence, nor would I plant flowers eager for bloom.

I would not light a fire just to use up the wood, nor would I organise shelves of paint cans.

I would not clean the gutters or wipe down the shutters, nor would I make any plans.

I would not practice a language or crave entertainment to avoid the anxiety of rest.

I would not be hassled by what’s left to complete, nor be pressured to do more, not less.

When I next feel the weight of the world bearing down hard on my chest, I’ll smile carefree because now I can see how to make a new Won’t Do List.

As today I will not do many things, because the things I do should be grand. I will take myself to wherever I please, and settle wherever I land.

So, if To-Do’s and reminders have got you feeling bothered, and you see no end to your stress. Try following my lead with a list of your own to enjoy the sweet taste of success.

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Thanks to Tim Ferriss, Kevin Rose, and Derek Sivers for many insights that I have turned into action — particularly the No-Plans Day idea that inspired this post.

👉 This post and more can be found on my blog at gwilsonswork.com