Emily P Freeman wrote a challenging blog post a few weeks past which including her guide for 2025 especially things to do and things not to do. The list of “Not to do” jarred my spirit and really got me thinking. I knew I needed to pray about this list and not just “think” about this list but write down and activate this list. I did borrow some of her ideas, they were so good and universal too.
My NOT To Do List
I will not watch as much news. In fact, I will watch very little as most is tainted one way or another anyway. This is for my own sanity.
I will not scroll on my phone at the same time especially at the same time as I watch TV and/or visit with family.
I will not pick up the phone during the middle of the night (I sadly admit that I do this frequently) or first thing in the morning. I will wait at least one hour before checking my phone.
I will not just quit when the world gets too much or as Emily called it “Checking out.There is a difference between choosing our absence and disassociation.”
I will not give up quickly. When I feel like quitting, I will give myself space, time and prayer before making the final decision.
I will not keep doing things just because this is the way I have always done them. Change can be good and sometimes things have to be let go of and be completed.
I will not waste time. Time is a precious gift and too often I procrastinate and not use it wisely. Yet taking naps are healthy and I won’t feel guilty when I need and want to take a break to rest.
I will not believe and tell myself I am a failure. I will instead learn from my setbacks, take a deep breath and keep moving forward.
I will not feel bad when I don’t always succeed at accomplishing this list. Life is progress and learning curve. I will keep learning. Step by step.
What would you add/put on a NOT TO DO List?
Oh this is so good, Jean. I learned the hard way during Covid/political upheaval that I couldn’t watch endless hours of the news. It sparked anxiety in me in a way that was truly awful. These days, I’ll see what’s happening and then be on my way. God knows the rest of the story. And that gives me so much peace.
Hi Linda. I made this list but having a hard time sticking to it. trying though. Habits are hard to break but glad I wrote it down and put it out in public. I am watching less news and focusing more on gratitude. That has helped quite a bit.
Ouch… So many of the things on your list are failings of mine as well! I have been working to find a better “balance” as of late and these are a wonderful cause for further reflection as to how I can improve. Thank you for sharing!
Hi Phil, so good to see you here. Balance is such the perfect word for this type of list. I know I won’t be perfect at this but trying for a better balance certainly will help!
I love this list, Jean! We all, I believe, try to do too much when God only wants us to be with Him. Life is too short and too precious to waste a moment in frittering away our gifts with distractions, although I’ll join you in that occasional nap. The Lord knows we need to rest, too. Blessings always!
I am doing better with the afternoon distractions but still pick up that phone in the middle of the night. some habits are hard to break. But writing things out and putting it public has helped too.
Universal indeed. Many of the DON’Ts you mention are common habits of many, no doubt. I too am guilty of wasting time, or not moving-and-doing with focus and efficiency. Procrastination is another issue. I’m glad you shared this today, Jean. It helps to take stock of our habits now and then!
I think your last sentence sums it up well – helps us take stock of our habits now and then. That is a great way to look at things. Stop and look how we are doing things and what we do want to change or at least modify some. Thanks Nancy!