Things I’m no longer doing

A while ago, I saw someone share a list of things they’re not doing anymore. It made me think about the things I’ve stopped doing — or am learning to let go of — in the last year or two.

• Over-engineering systems that already work just fine.
• Keeping outdated workflows because I invested time into them.
• Accepting meetings that could have clearly been a message.
• Clicking into Slack just to clear a badge, then reading a message I can’t unsee during my time off.
• Treating quiet days like they’re wasted days.
• Waiting to feel ready before taking on roles I’m already capable of.
• Asking for permission when I don’t actually need it.
• Saying “Let me think about it” when I’ve already decided the answer is no.
• Overcommitting to people out of politeness.
• Feeling guilty about wanting days just for myself.
• Comparing where I am to someone else’s finish line.
• Using social media, or subconsciously curating my life online.
• Checking the same app a few times an hour like it’s a slot machine.
• Keeping photos, notes, or apps I’ll never use.
• Waiting for the perfect environment, moment, or vibe to start something.
• Feeling like I “should” be or not be doing something.
• Treating imperfections like problems I need to fix.
• Letting a blank page intimidate me.
• Thinking running is only for “real runners.”
• Telling myself that reading in cafés is better just because it’s a change of scenery.
• Treating every tool on my desk as either an identity choice or a functional one when it has always been both.
• Thinking I need to finish every book I start.
• Treating rest like something I have to earn.
• Overthinking small decisions that don’t actually matter.
• Assuming that because I feel strongly about something now, I’ll feel the same way forever.