Based on this Atlantic article, maybe it’s worth trying. Maybe not - vowing not to eat delicious, hot fresh doughnuts might just make one think of them more. If you drink too much, maybe it’s worthwhile. But is this a strategy you have used?
I’ve found that generally focusing on don’ts wasn’t really helpful because it just caused my mind to dwell on them more. It was more useful to tell myself “be more proactive” rather than “stop being lazy” even if it was technically the same thing.
I’m the same way…
My whole life is a “To Don’t” list.
Everyone is good for something. Me? I’m a bad example. 
Sure, but in your profession, you probably use a checklist more routinely than any of us do. 
Interesting article but those things are usually covered in my to-do list:
- Do avoid sugar
- Be positive
etc
Basically, I tend to agree with Velocity.
If I write:
- Don’t eat Cheetos and Dingdongs
I will start to crave them. 
I’m a big fan of the via negativa, as discussed in the article. I think the issue here is that it should be applied to things you genuinely don’t like, as opposed to things you do like, but feel bad about doing. If you hate Cheetos, but eat them to be polite, or because they are cheaper or easier, then the “To Don’t” list can give you permission not to eat them. But if you really like Cheetos, then they don’t belong on a “To Don’t” list, because that will only make you feel restricted and lead to temptation.
I tried, but only got as far as “1. Don’t Make Lists”.
- Never put salt in your eyes.
