Stop-Doing List Protocol

A structured protocol for identifying and eliminating activities, commitments, and habits that drain time and energy without producing meaningful results. Inspired by Jim Collins's insight that great organizations have 'stop-doing' lists, not just to-do lists. Step 1 — Audit: List everything you spend time on in a typical week. Be exhaustive. Step 2 — Test each item against three questions: (a) If I weren't already doing this, would I start it today? (b) Does this directly advance my top 3 priorities? (c) Am I the only person who can do this? Step 3 — Classify into four buckets: Eliminate (stop doing entirely), Delegate (give to someone better suited), Automate (use tools or systems), Reduce (do less frequently or with less effort). Step 4 — For each 'Eliminate' item, schedule the stop: notify stakeholders, set an end date, and create a replacement plan if needed. Step 5 — Review monthly: old commitments creep back and new low-value activities accumulate. The protocol must be recurring.

When to use it

When you feel perpetually busy but not productive. During annual or quarterly planning. After a major life or role change that should shift priorities. When taking on something new and needing to create space. When burnout is approaching. At least quarterly as a maintenance practice.

How it can help

Addresses the fundamental productivity problem that adding tools and techniques cannot solve: you're doing too many things. Most productivity systems focus on doing things better or faster — this is the only one focused on doing fewer things. The 'Would I start this today?' question is devastatingly effective at revealing legacy commitments that persist only because of the sunk cost fallacy. Typically frees 5-10 hours per week.