Now it seems that if we all just stopped doing those things we either don’t like or are not good at, the whole world would come to a screeching halt and there’d be total chaos and anarchy, and there’s truth to that. But if we commit ourselves to prioritizing those activities through which we contribute the most value – and at the same time allow those around us to do likewise – we’ll eventually find that we are more productive and that more gets done.
There are things that I’m great at that you might struggle with. In the same way, there are activities at which I’m completely inept that you could do with no problem… you might even enjoy it. In the book of 1st Corinthians, the bible compares the local church to a “body” in which there are many different parts – all very important. The best results come when eyes function as eyes, feet function as feet, and so on. If the feet aren’t on the job, our knees and elbows can fill in, but a 10K race may be out of the question. Your organization is no different – when all of the players are in the right positions; when everyone is sitting on the right seat of the bus (to borrow from Jim Collins in "Good to Great") our organizations are primed for success. The secret, then, isn't to become well-rounded, but by allowing everyone to function where they thrive (or in their "sweet spot" as we say at Crossroads) we develop a well-rounded organization.
What does that look like for you?
- What are you doing now that you should begin looking for an opportunity to delegate?
- What are the areas at which you excel that you should begin to spend more time developing?
- Are you comfortable focusing on what only you can do, or do you need a packed calendar to feel productive?
Peace,
Corbett
p.s. For a much better and in detail presentation on this topic, I recommend “The Next Generation Leader” by Andy Stanley.
2 comments:
Organizations benefit tremendously when people perform things they enjoy doing or have a natural talent. Sometimes, both organizations and individuals are challenged to do things outside of their comfort zone when no one else is available to help.
I agree completely, Lois. My dream is to one day be in a position to spend 80% of my time doing the things that I'm best at, and 20% of my time doing things that just "need doing" or that stretch me.
Thanks for commenting!
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