The Delegation Myth and What You Really Need First

Have you ever gotten the advice “just delegate more,” and you just want to scream?  

That’s because it’s terrible advice! Delegation isn’t just something you can just “do”. It’s actually step three of a three-step process!  

Here’s the advice people are really giving when they tell you to delegate:  

Step 1 – Strategy  

Get crystal clear on your direction and priorities first. What are the goals you are trying to hit? Rank them from most important to least important. I know that everything feels incredibly important, but not everything can be priority number one; really, only one goal can be number one. Break it all down and figure out the chain of events to get there.  

Without this, you're just randomly assigning tasks.  

Step 2 – Systems  

Now that you have a chain of events. Build an infrastructure and processes that make sense to everyone - not just you. This can take the shape of a document like Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or a mapping of the processes and steps that need to be taken. Doing this will help you make sure everyone is on the same page on how to achieve your goals. 

Your processes should be clear enough that others can run with them without your constant input.  

Step 3 – Delegate  

Now you can hand over real ownership, not just assignments. Your team knows what goals they're achieving and the best way for them to get there. Let them show you just how easy it can be! It’s more rewarding for everyone.  

True delegation means your business doesn't depend on your personal capacity. It means decisions flow seamlessly. Instead of being the bottleneck, you get to be the support when asked for it. It's actual freedom - from both the work and the worry.  

So, if delegation feels impossible, you might not have a people problem. You might have a strategy or systems problem. And that's actually good news - because both can be built. 

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