Whether you’re a corporate executive, a retail manager, or a stay at home parent, being able to delegate responsibilities is a critical skill for making the most of your personal effectiveness. Delegating, however, can be somewhat tricky — you have to be firm, yet trusting with the person you’re delegating your responsibilities to. To help you get over any anxieties you might have about delegating, to walk you through the actual process of delegating is what we are here about today.

The first step is to admit if you are fearful of delegating

Over to you: What is your personal fear? How do you deal with it?

Then, get in the right MINDSET

1. Set your ego aside.

A big mental obstacle to delegation is that «If you want something done right, then do it yourself.» You’re not the only person in the world who can do it right. You maybe the only person who can do it right at this very moment, but if you take the time to train someone, they’ll probably be able to do it right, too. Don’t feel ashamed or incompetent because you need help with something — you’re actually being a more effective worker by getting help when you need it.

2. Stop waiting for people to volunteer.

Getthe help you need — don’t wait for it to come to you, because it might not. Many people are indifferent to what others are going through, and there’s not much you can do to change them. Do not get frustrated; remember that it’s ultimately your job to communicate your needs.

3. Don’t view requests for help negatively.

Lots of people are uncomfortable with asking for help. You may also feel guilty, like you’re burdening others, or shameful, because you think (for some reason) that you’re supposed be able to handle everything on your own.

4. Learn to trust others.

If you’re afraid of delegating because you don’t think anyone can do the job as good as you can, remember two things: First, that almost anyone can become good at something with enough practice, and second, you’re also giving your helper a chance to practice a new skill or try a new task.

Glossary:

Over to you: Which idea do you find most practical for yourself? Why?

Continue with the question “When should I delegate?”

Over to you: Which question do you find most important to consider? Why?

Read «Feel Free To Delegate» Part 2