Many of you know that I’ve been a professional speaker and trainer for approximately two millennia. (And yes, I do look good for being 2,025 years old, don’t I?) Whenever I speak on the topic of time management, I always ask my audiences, “What are your primary reasons for not delegating tasks,” and people in every country on every continent invariably come up with the same four or five answers! I find it fascinating that all of us seem to have the same roadblocks to delegation, regardless of the endless evidence in favor of this practice.

But I do sympathize. Delegation can be a tricky concept to master, especially in the business world. After all, who among us hasn’t clung to a task, convinced that we’re the only ones who can do it right? So, in today’s article, let’s begin by exploring the reasons why many of us struggle to delegate tasks. And next, I’ll share some practical tips for breaking free from the “I can do it all” mentality.

Reason 1: The myth of the superhero

Deep down, we all want to be superheroes, don’t we? And in the business world, that often means taking on every task and responsibility we can, believing we are the sole saviors of our organizations. However, the myth of the superhero can lead to overload and burnout. What’s more, superhero-ing can sometimes lead to resentment from colleagues who feel left out and undervalued. So, the next time you’re tempted to don your cape and tackle everything yourself, remember that even superheroes can use a little help sometimes—and paradoxically, delegating can lead to improved relationships with those to whom you delegate. (We all love to feel needed and valued.)

Reason 2: Fear of losing control

Let’s face it: many of us are control freaks. We like to have our hands in every pot, ensuring that everything is running smoothly and according to plan. Delegating tasks means relinquishing some of that control, which can be downright terrifying. But remember, in the wise words of Elsa from Frozen, “Let it go!” Embracing the fact that others can contribute positively to your team’s success will ultimately lead to a more balanced and efficient work environment.

Reason 3: Trust issues

Handing over the reins to someone else often requires a level of trust that must first be established. We may worry that our colleagues won’t complete the task as well as we could, or that they might not share our same level of dedication. However, it’s essential to remember that trust is a two-way street, and by delegating tasks to our team members, we’re also showing them that we believe in their abilities. The upshot? Increased morale, stronger teamwork, and ultimately, a more successful organization.

Reason 4: Ahh…the ol’ dreaded learning curve!

And finally, we have the “I don’t have time to delegate” excuse, rearing its head and preventing us from being more productive. Yes indeed, training someone else to take on a task can be time-consuming, and let’s be honest, sometimes it feels easier just to do it ourselves. However, investing time in teaching others not only lightens our own workload in the long run, but also fosters a culture of growth and development. So, go ahead, take the time to teach your colleagues the ropes – your future self will thank you.

Tips for Better Delegation

Now that we’ve explored some of the reasons why we resist delegating tasks, let’s look at some practical tips for improving our delegation skills:

1. Recognize the value of delegation

The first step in mastering the art of delegation is understanding its value. Delegating tasks allows you to focus on high-level strategic planning and decision-making while providing your team members with opportunities for growth and development. When done effectively, delegation leads to increased efficiency, productivity, and overall business success. And, like a fine wine or a perfectly ripe avocado, your delegation skills only get better with time. By delegating tasks, you can focus on crafting your master plan (cue evil laugh) while your team members blossom into superstars.

2. Identify the right tasks to delegate

Not all tasks are created equal, and some are just begging to be delegated. To identify which tasks you can delegate, consider the following criteria:

• Is the task repetitive or time-consuming?
• Can someone else on the team perform the task as effectively (or maybe even more efficiently) than you?
• Does the task provide a learning opportunity for a team member?

Tasks that meet these criteria are prime candidates for delegation.

3. Unleash the power of matchmaking

Think of delegation as a matchmaking game, where tasks and team members fall in love at first sight. Assess the skills, strengths, and interests of your team members to create the perfect pairings, and make sure the delegated tasks align with each person’s capabilities. This not only ensures that the work is completed effectively but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride in the job you’ve delegated.

4. Become a master of clarity

When delegating, it’s essential to communicate your expectations clearly. Paint a vivid picture of the job at hand, including the task’s goals and objectives, any quirky requirements, and that all-important deadline. This way, your team member will know exactly how to make your vision a reality, with no room for any miscalculations or goof-ups.

5. Offer support and resources

Empower your team members by providing them with the necessary resources and support to complete their tasks. This may include access to information, tools, or training. Additionally, make sure you’re available – especially initially – to answer questions and provide guidance as needed.

6. Monitor progress without micromanaging

Of course, you’ll want to stay informed about the status of delegated tasks, but it’s important to avoid micromanaging your team members. Trust their abilities and give them the freedom to complete the tasks in their own way. Implementing regular check-ins and progress updates can help you to feel calm and reassured, which in turn allows you to respect your team members’ autonomy.

7. Acknowledge and reward success

Recognizing and rewarding your team members’ achievements is crucial for maintaining motivation and fostering a work environment that practically buzzes with positivity. Celebrate their successes and provide constructive feedback to help them grow and develop their skills.

Conclusion

Believe me, I’ve been there. Delegating tasks can be challenging. However, by understanding the reasons behind our resistance to delegation, and by implementing the tips outlined above, we can begin to overcome our reluctance and embrace the power of teamwork. Remember, no one person can do it all – and that’s perfectly okay. By learning to delegate effectively, we not only lighten our own workloads but also empower our colleagues, foster professional growth, and ultimately, contribute to the overall success of our organizations. And who knows? You might find that delegation can be downright liberating – and maybe even fun!

That’s it for today. Please feel free to suggest future topics. I’m “all ears,” and I really appreciate hearing from you. Oh, and one more thing… Happy End of Summer! Get out there and enjoy it while it lasts.