Anyone interested in productivity probably knows Katsuma Kazuyo. She produces an incredible volume of work, and at first glance it looks impossible to emulate. Her idea of banning the “three poisons” and keeping a “not-to-do list” makes that challenge manageable.
What Are the Three Poisons?
The Buddhist term “three poisons” originally refers to greed, anger, and ignorance. Katsuma reframes them like this:
- Do not envy.
- Do not get angry.
- Do not complain.
If you simply stew in envy, anger, and complaints, they poison both you and the people around you. If you notice them and rechannel them, they can become fuel.
Do Not Envy
Envy is often a sign of your own desire. If you truly want the same result, turn it into a goal rather than resentment.
Do Not Get Angry
“Do not get angry” does not mean suppress every feeling. It means respond constructively—state what you would like to see instead of venting.
Do Not Complain
Complaints shove your poison onto someone else. Find another outlet or convert the frustration into a goal.
Add the Three Poisons to Your Not-To-Do List
In the next article we will build a not-to-do list using this idea. It takes little effort to maintain yet delivers outsized benefits.
The three poisons are hard to shake, but letting go of them attracts better things. In the Basic Support Plan we can work through them together.