Hi there.
We all know about to-do lists. They’re packed with meetings, reports, emails, and reminders. But here’s the thing: the most powerful list you can make isn’t a to-do list at all.
It’s a Not-to-Do List.
Why? Because every time you say yes to something, you’re saying no to something else.
Think about it. What are you saying yes to that is taking you away having a real conversation with a member? What about time spent solving a problem that actually matters?
And here’s where it gets tricky. Sometimes we’re drawn to those small, low-value tasks – things like checking email every 10 minutes, reorganizing files, or creating another report. Why? Because every time we cross something off, our brain gives us a little hit of dopamine.
It feels good. It feels like progress.
But in the end, it’s busywork. It’s activity without impact.
The mundane feels safer – it’s easy, it’s controllable, and it’s familiar. But it also keeps us from doing the harder, high-value work: solving member problems, improving processes, or leading innovation.
In credit unions, where our real value is helping people achieve financial freedom, we can’t afford to let low-value tasks steal our focus.
So here’s the shift: start paying attention to what doesn’t deserve your time and energy.
Ask yourself: Can I automate this? Can I delegate it? Can I eliminate it altogether?
Because when you cut out the nonessentials, you don’t just create empty space. You create margin. Margin for deeper member connections. Margin for team collaboration. Margin for your own renewal.
And here’s the truth: saying no to the unimportant isn’t selfish. It’s strategic. It’s how you protect your best energy for the work that matters most.
So this week, I want to challenge you. Don’t just make a to-do list. Make a Not-to-Do List.
Decide what’s not worth your time, write it down, and commit to protecting your focus.
Because when you say no with purpose… you’re really saying yes.
Yes to members.
Yes to mission.
Yes to your best self at work.
So, what’s going on your Not-to-Do List?
Thanks for watching, and remember… ideas spark change, actions ignite it.