I’m a big fan of delegating things in life to free my time up for what matters most to me. This is why I don’t do things such as mowing my lawn or cleaning my own car – I delegate this type of stuff to others in exchange for money so that I can buy my time back.
Why? Because time is more valuable than money.
When it comes to life outside of business, there is a limit to what you can delegate.
All small business owners must learn to delegate better in order to succeed. When you’re in your startup phase, you are handling everything yourself. To become a grownup business, you have to start investing in great people to do tasks you can no longer do.
Three-quarters of all small businesses have zero staff, which highlights the fact that people are resistant to delegating responsibility – they don’t trust others to do the same quality and level of work.
Look, you have to grow your business to achieve and maintain success. It is a misconception that people cost money; a lack of production and a failure to grow your business costs you money – far more money. However, when it comes to life, there is a limit to what you can delegate.
Here are some things in life you just can’t delegate.
1. Health
Of course, you can use a personal trainer to motivate you and hire a cook to make the right meals; but ultimately you have to be willing to do the exercise and commit to a healthy diet. Your body is your responsibility!
2. Parenting
It’s okay to employ a nanny – I do. But you can’t just delegate being a mom or dad to someone else. YOU are your kid’s most important role model and teacher, and nurturing that relationship requires time spent together.
3. Confidence
People can fake confidence, but if you want genuine, REAL confidence … it can only come from within and is created from the actions YOU take in life. You may be able to take many things from me, but you can never take my confidence.
4. Goal Setting
Nobody should be setting your goals except you. Don’t reach for what others expect of you; rather, set your own expectations. I make my goals bigger than anybody else would make for me!
5. Your Purpose
Can you imagine asking, “Hey John, can you get my purpose in order? I’m just too busy right now.” Sorry, it’s not going to happen. Finding your purpose will never be something you can delegate in life.
6. Relationships
Much like parenting, you can’t delegate this stuff. You can hire an assistant to help with birthday gifts or making appointments; but sooner or later, YOU will need to be there for a relationship to thrive.
7. Spiritual Condition
Isn’t this self-evident? This is your responsibility and yours alone.
8. Personal Development
The more you learn, the more you earn. I’ve spent so much time and money over the years going around the nation to different conferences in order to connect with others and better myself – and I highly recommend you do the same. I don’t delegate this – because it can’t be delegated.
Delegate as many things in life as you can to free up your time to pursue what’s most important to you.
