How to stop working too much

If you are working too much...

If you just can’t let go of doing it all...

If you keep saying the 5 deadly words:

“I will do it myself”...

Then this email is for you.

Because my name is Craig Ballantyne and I’m a recovering workaholic.

I know these 5 steps that worked for me can help you too:

Step #1 – Public Accountability

When I told the world – via social media – that, “I’m shutting down my phone every night at 6pm PST to be with Michelle”...

It left me with two choices:

a) Break that pledge and be seen as a lying, hypocritical workaholic

b) Commit to this pledge and be more focused during the day

So...

I recommend you ask your team, your clients, your family, your coach, etc. for hardcore accountability.

Ask someone to check on you each morning about how your nightly shutdown went...

Ask them to check on you mid-afternoon and test you by asking…

“Are you ready to be present at night?”

Step #2 – Identify Your Triggers

Destroy your distractions and toss your temptations.

If checking your phone and email too much cause you to work an extra hour (or three) each day...

Do whatever it takes to cut back on that habit.

Use app blockers like Opal...

Or completely delete the tools from your phone after a certain point each day...

And only re-install them in the morning.

Step #3 – Set Significant Consequences

If you don’t do something...

Then a reward must be removed...

Or a punishment must be in place.

Carrot or the stick…

Whichever motivates you best.

Or use both.

Simple, but effective.

Step #4 – Block Your Non-Negotiable Non-Work Time

Plan your Perfect Week.

Put workouts, family time, self-care, etc. on the calendar.

These are set-in-stone non-negotiable actions.

The “big rocks” as Steven Covey would say.

Put those on the calendar first and build everything else around it.

And if you begin to break these non-negotiable commitments...

See Step #3.

Step #5 – Change Your Identity

This is the greatest lesson I learned from James Clear, author of Atomic Habits.

Planning, consequences, and accountability only go so far...

It’s only when you change your Core Identity – to where you no longer see yourself as a workaholic whose worth in life is related to the amount you work or money you make – that you will finally be able to step back from being a workaholic.

You must build the type of identity you want to have…

And tie it to the things you value most in life.

Maybe that’s your ability to connect with people, your good judgement, or your reputation for always keeping your word.

Maybe it’s the skills you’ve developed, or just being a great mom or dad.

This takes work.

It takes changing your limiting self-beliefs.

But it is worth it.

Success Loves Speed,

Craig

PS - If you’re ready to 2X your income (or more) while working 10 less hours per week...

... Just REPLY to this email with the words “2X 10 LESS” and we'll set up a time to chat with you to find out if we can help.

Thank you for taking the time to read this email. This message is part of an ongoing conversation between us, and I want to take a moment to ensure you have full transparency about why you received this message, how your information is handled, and what to expect from future emails. Why You’re Receiving This Email: You’re receiving this email because at some point, you opted in to receive updates, news, or information on a specific topic we’ve previously discussed or shared. Whether it was through a subscription, a form submission, or another form of communication, your information was shared willingly, and we respect your decision to connect with us. If you’re wondering about the nature of our correspondence, rest assured that we aim to keep all emails relevant, interesting, and free from unnecessary clutter. This includes respecting your inbox and refraining from sending irrelevant messages. Your Privacy is Important: We value your trust and take your privacy very seriously. The information you provide is securely stored and never shared, sold, or used outside the purpose for which you provided it. If you ever want to review how we handle your data, feel free to contact us directly. Transparency is our priority, and we’re happy to address any questions you might have. You are always in control of the information you share. If you feel that any part of your subscription or interaction needs clarification, let us know. We’re here to provide accurate answers and ensure your satisfaction. How to Unsubscribe or Manage Your Preferences: We understand that everyone’s inbox is different. If you ever find our emails no longer relevant, there’s no hard feelings. You can easily manage your email preferences or unsubscribe using the link provided below. By clicking the unsubscribe link, you’ll be taken to a page where you can either adjust your communication preferences (such as receiving fewer emails or only on specific topics) or completely remove yourself from our list. The process is straightforward, and any changes will take effect promptly. We don’t use tricks or gimmicks to keep you subscribed. Our priority is to ensure that our emails add value to your day, and if they don’t, we respect your decision to part ways. Accessibility and Communication: If you have any trouble accessing the unsubscribe page, managing preferences, or understanding why you’re receiving this email, you can reach out directly to our support team. We aim to provide a response within a reasonable time frame and address your concerns effectively. Our communication is designed to be as inclusive as possible, but we know there’s always room for improvement. If you have any feedback on how we can make our emails more accessible or relevant, please don’t hesitate to share. A Commitment to Non-Intrusive Emails: We aim to create a non-intrusive communication experience. This means we won’t overwhelm your inbox with unnecessary messages, and we work hard to ensure our content remains clear, concise, and helpful to you. The purpose of this email is to stay connected with you and provide updates or information that we believe is meaningful. If we ever fail to meet these standards, we encourage you to let us know. Feedback, whether positive or constructive, is always appreciated. Your thoughts help us understand how we can do better and improve our communication approach. While we cannot guarantee every suggestion will be implemented, we will take the time to carefully review and consider your input. We strive to ensure all communication channels are open and readily available to you. Whether it’s a question, comment, or concern, our team is ready to assist.