Deleting tasks means deliberately deciding not to do them at all. Take a hard look at every item on your to-do list and ask yourself: “What is the worst thing that would happen if this task or project weren’t done? Would my life change drastically? Would anyone else be irreparably hurt?” If the answer is no, cross it off your list. Let go of the obligation and guilt of tasks you will never get to anyway, and free your energy for what truly matters most.       

            More often than not, the act of eliminating tasks involves saying “no” to other people. If it is hard for you to say no, you will always end up doing things you don’t really want to. You have to learn how to balance doing things for those you care about while still honoring your own priorities and goals. Only you have your eye on your big-picture goals, and only you can decide what fits into your overall life balance and what does not.       

            You need to get good at saying no. Think about the situations you often get trapped by, and be prepared to turn down requests gracefully by composing a few tailor-made responses. Practice delivering them. For example, to decline an invitation to party or event: “Thank you for thinking of me. I’d love to attend, but I have a prior commitment.” To decline a request for committee work: “That sounds like a great project. I’m flattered that you think I’m the best person to handle it, but my schedule is far too jammed for me to do it justice right now. It wouldn’t be responsible for me to say yes.”