Getting Out of the Weeds

As a leader rises, so does the need to transition from details to strategy.  This ascension requires giving up control of tasks the leader does well.  Though leaders recognize the need to delegate and get out of the weeds, It is hard.  Reasons leaders struggle include: 

  • Lack of confidence in another person's ability to do the task well.

  • Comfort in the task and the ability to execute it with excellence.

  • Fear of meaningful ways to fill the time following delegation.

  • Perception the leader is unloading tasks on others unfairly.

 

Leaders know effective delegation is part of the role, yet they choose to remain overwhelmed when they do not share the workload. This often happens when a leader is promoted within an organization.  If you are a leader who finds yourself deeper in the details that you would like, take time to reflect on the following practices to empower yourself and your team.

 

Embrace the growth mindset.  Carol Dweck's work on mindset is insightful for many reasons.  The higher you rise in leadership, the more you need a growth mindset.  Gain clarity on your current mindset about delegation and why you stay in the weeds.  Become curious about the ways a growth mindset will help you embrace change. 

 

Identify the high-value responsibilities for your role.  Once you identify the top 3 to 5 things you must do to positively impact the organization, share them with your leader.  Ensure you are on the same page.  This exercise reinforces responsibilities you'll need to keep versus delegate.

 

Decide to get out of the weeds.  This may seem like an obvious step. It often is stated in words and not followed with actions.  With this decision, what will you do to make this reality?  How will you measure your success?

 

Respectfully delegate tasks.  My post on effective delegation provides a blueprint to consider who, how, and what to delegate.  Make a plan and hold accountability throughout the transition. 

 

Check progress.  Creating measurable results to get out of the weeds is an ideal way to celebrate progress.  A timeline with the tasks to be delegated is first step.  Model accountability by starting with yourself.

 

Identify growth opportunities.  Once you feel confident in your plan for delegation, take time to reflect on the ways you want or need to grow.  This is another opportunity to meet with your leader for feedback.  Agree upon growth goals and milestones for career development.

 

Acknowledging the need to get out of the weeds is important.  Actually getting out of the weeds takes proactive thought, communication, and clarity.  Your mindset leads the way.  The freedom that comes from this exercise leads to growth and prepares you for what comes next in your career.

Dr. Katie Stone is the founder of Together Evolving.  Email Katie at katie.stone@togetherevolving.com to learn more about the transformational impact coaching has on you and your leadership.

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Overwhelm at Year-End: Ways to Help You Through It