The Big D: How Delegation Reclaims Your Sanity

Let’s talk about The Big D: Delegation. 

If you’re anything like me, you might have spent a large chunk of your career being terrible at it. As a classic Type A personality, I spent years wanting to ensure every task was done exactly the way I would do it. I felt that if I didn't oversee every minute detail, it simply wouldn't be completed.

For a long time, my inability to successfully delegate weighed me down. It led to endless late nights, missing family events to "run in and fix something quick," and a steady decline in my own job satisfaction.

The "Minute-Pickers"

When I talk about delegation, I’m not just talking about clinical tasks assigned to unlicensed personnel. I’m talking about the "minute-pickers", the small tasks that pick away at your schedule throughout the day. Printing out a note, making a routine phone call to order supplies, or organizing a simple list. These are the tasks that, when added up, steal the time you need for high-level leadership.

The Lesson of Letting Go

Over time, I started to realize something important. Most of my own professional growth came from making mistakes and learning how to fix them. I learned how to prioritize needs and communicate with families because I had the opportunity to fail and try again.

If I never stick to a lesson until I personally handle it, why would I expect my team to be any different?

Learning how to delegate, and more importantly, learning how to communicate the goal rather than demanding the task be done "my way", has been a complete game-changer in my career. It hasn't just improved my time management; it has built confidence in my team. When I delegate, I’m giving them a chance to succeed, a new learning experience, and the opportunity to problem-solve if a minor mistake occurs.

Reclaiming Your Day

If you find your days feeling crushing and impossible to manage, take a hard look at your to-do list. What can you delegate within scope that will lift the confidence of those around you?

By letting go of the small things, you free yourself to manage and prioritize the critical needs that only you can do.

Are you struggling with the art of delegation? Reach out to us! We’re here to help guide you through the process of letting go so you can lead more effectively.