If you keep doing the many small daily tasks that you've always done, you will never free up the time to work on the bigger picture. If letting go of these daily tasks is daunting (and sometimes it is) then take gradual steps:

• Identify a task that you want to delegate
• Document the correct way to perform this task (or just the outcomes, depending on the task), including the quality control standards for each step. This starts to create an Action Plan, which can be put together by you or by the person you are delegating to with your supervision
• Clearly specify the expected results (success measures) of the delegated task. Outline the what, why, when, who, where and how
• Put the Action Plan into place. Don't micromanage, but make sure that you are kept in the loop on progress and performance. Give feedback on the results and outcomes
• Jointly revise the document until you are both comfortable with it. Train the person on how to successfully run this new system and insert a copy of the process document into your Operations Manual or SOPs
• Repeat these steps on the next task.

Delegation is a critical component in the development of a business that is balanced and inclusive. It will help you to discover the natural place for yourself, your colleagues and/or your staff.

Successful delegation will always require your input. Remember, delegated tasks that fail usually do so because the person given the task does not understand it; the task is done incorrectly; instructions are given too many times, or the person is unmotivated.