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Focus on Things Only You Can Do
Leadership / Advice · Updated Jun 2026
Delegate everything that someone else can do. Spend your time on what only you can do.
The Filter
Before doing something, ask: "Can someone else do this?" If yes, delegate it. Focus on:
- Setting direction and strategy.
- Making decisions that require your authority or context.
- Building relationships only you can build (board, key clients, senior hires).
- Coaching and developing your direct reports.
What to Let Go Of
- Reviewing every PR or design.
- Attending meetings where you're not needed.
- Solving problems your team can solve.
- Tasks you enjoy but that others could own.
Why It's Hard
- You're good at some of these tasks. That's not a reason to keep doing them.
- Delegation feels slow at first. It's an investment.
- Letting go feels like losing control. It is. That's the point.
The Payoff
Your time is the scarcest resource. Using it on things only you can do is the highest-leverage thing you can do.
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