I was recently talking to a potential client at a training event, and the topic of delegation came up. Leonard had a successful small business that was growing quickly and he was overwhelmed. He worked 70-80 hours a week and was unable to get everything that he needed to get done in a given week. He was stressed, and his family was struggling; he came to us in an attempt to get his life back. When I asked him how he was handling delegating tasks, he went on a ten-minute tangent full of reasons and excuses as to why all the work within the company fell onto his plate.
And while I don’t doubt that some of those reasons were valid, it was very evident that Leonard had a lot of anxiety around the idea of delegation. And that fear was holding him back from even trying to move some of those tasks to others on his team.
Delegation, a vital aspect of effective leadership, often finds itself overshadowed by the looming cloud of anxiety and fear. This apprehension can be aptly described as a symptom of control-itis–a compulsion to retain control over every aspect of business. Today, we’ll delve into the realm of delegation anxiety, and discuss ways that you can overcome that fear to become a more effective leader for your team.
Strategies for Overcoming Fear
1. Identify Root Causes: Start by identifying the specific aspects of delegation that trigger your anxiety. Understanding these triggers is the first step in addressing your fears and overcoming them.
2. Build Trust: Cultivate trust in your team members. Recognize their capabilities, and remember that you’ve assembled a team of competent individuals. Trusting your team is the bedrock of effective delegation.
3. Clear Communication: Anxiety often arises from misunderstandings. Ensure that instructions are clear, expectations are set, and your team knows how to reach out for support when needed. And work toward better communication each and every day.
4. Start Small: Begin by delegating smaller, less critical tasks. As you witness successful outcomes, your confidence in delegation will grow.
5. Provide Support: Offer support and resources to your team members. Make sure they have everything they need to accomplish their delegated tasks. And take ownership when they fail because they were not adequately supported.
6. Create a Feedback Loop: Establish a feedback loop to keep you informed about progress. Regular check-ins allow you to monitor progress without micromanaging.
Overcoming delegation anxiety is not just a personal triumph; it’s a catalyst for improved outcomes and organizational success. Addressing the fear associated with delegation, recognizing its root causes, and employing strategies to build trust and effective communication are pivotal steps on the path to becoming a more confident leader.
Delegation not only enhances a leader’s effectiveness, but it also empowers the team to excel. Remember that delegation isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a testament to your leadership wisdom. As you conquer your delegation fears, you will unlock the full potential of your team and pave the way for remarkable achievements.