A simple exercise to determine ownership of problems. Hint, it might not be you.
Today’s leaders are overworked, stressed, and drained. They know they need to change but don’t have the energy to do it. Being overwhelmed by too much information often prevents leaders from knowing where to start.
Here’s a thought-provoking exercise that brings clarity to your priorities to help you understand where to spend your time.
When it comes to workplace problems, ask yourself these 4 questions to determine how much energy they should take:
SHOULD I OWN IT?
Is this your problem? Are you the only one who should/could solve this problem?
SHOULD I COACH or DELEGATE IT?
Should the person presenting the problem own it? If yes, how can you guide or hold them accountable?
SHOULD I RECOGNIZE IT?
Is this a company problem and are the proper individuals aware of it? Is it your burden to address it or should the person coming to you address their Point of View?
SHOULD I TRUST IT?
Is this something you should find peace with and trust the solutions will come in divine time?
Helping others take ownership of problems, reduces the number of time-consuming meetings and makes room for up-and-coming leaders to make their own impactful decisions. When teammates make decisions, it encourages productivity, engagement, and innovation.
Great leaders avoid becoming overworked, stressed, and drained, by understanding that they do not need to answer all questions personally.
Your team deserves to flourish. Knowing the right questions to ask unlocks opportunities that can take your team to new heights.
Unify your team around the collective vision of success and team member priorities.
Uncover opportunities to work better together and navigate change with Teams by Revel
Revel Coach Co-Founder Marcy Stoudt is passionate about developing leaders, bringing teams together, and creating a work environment where people thrive. For the past 25 years, she has worked with hundreds of women and executives and has coached, taught, and inspired results through confidence and balance.