A Fresh Approach to New Year’s Resolutions: The Power of a "Stop Doing" List
- simon5396
- Jan 1
- 2 min read
As we step into the new year, many of us are setting goals, resolutions, and targets to make 2025 our best year yet. Whether it’s about achieving more in our careers, improving our health, or nurturing our relationships, most of us focus on what we want to start doing. But what if the real secret to success lies in identifying what we need to stop doing?
Jim Collins, in his book Good to Great, introduces the concept of the "stop doing" list. It’s a powerful reminder that growth doesn’t just come from adding more to our lives—it also comes from letting go of the things that no longer serve us.
Why a "Stop Doing" List Matters
In both our personal and professional lives, we all have habits, routines, or commitments that drain our time and energy without contributing meaningfully to our growth or happiness. These might include:
In our personal lives:
👍 Saying "yes" to social obligations that leave us drained or unfulfilled.
📱 Scrolling endlessly on social media instead of being present with loved ones.
😡 Holding onto grudges or negativity that weigh us down.
🧘♂️ Skipping self-care because we’re “too busy.”
In our professional lives:
🧨 Taking on tasks or projects that don’t align with our strengths or purpose.
🫡 Saying “yes” to everything and leaving no room for strategic priorities.
🫣 Avoiding difficult but necessary conversations.
🤔 Letting distractions and low-value activities dominate our workday.
Creating a "stop doing" list is a way of giving yourself permission to let go of what doesn’t serve your goals, values, or well-being—freeing up space for what truly matters.
How to Create Your "Stop Doing" List for 2025
As you reflect on the past year and plan for the one ahead, take a moment to think about what’s been holding you back in both your personal and professional life.
Ask yourself:
1️⃣ What habits, routines, or commitments drain my energy without adding value?
2️⃣ What relationships or situations no longer contribute positively to my life?
3️⃣ What am I doing out of obligation or habit rather than intention?
4️⃣ What distractions keep me from being present or productive?
Write these down, and commit to letting them go.
A Balanced Approach to Resolutions
This year, why not balance your list of resolutions with a "stop doing" list?
For every new habit or goal you set—whether it’s exercising more, spending quality time with family, or advancing your career—think about what you’ll stop doing to make space for it.
By consciously removing the things that don’t serve you, you’ll create the clarity, focus, and energy needed to embrace the things that do.
What will you let go of this year to make space for your biggest goals and aspirations? 🎯
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