Joe runs a professional services business. A few years ago, he successfully merged his business with a larger firm, which has helped him double his billings and reduce the administrative issues he manages. Becoming managing director of the new firm is a goal Joe is thinking about. Yet, he knows handling more responsibility will be overwhelming.

Joe’s current challenge is that he feels completely consumed by the sheer volume of his workload. The feeling controls him and has become his biggest issue, hindering his overall success and fulfillment.

He’s beginning to delegate many daily tasks. As a result, he can refocus on becoming more of a consultative advisor — which is where his passion lies. Joe recognizes he’s resisted delegating and is now setting up structures with the staff to ensure they support his new efforts.

Acknowledge Achievements

During sessions, Joe revealed that he always focuses on what has to be done, taking almost no time to acknowledge personal or staff achievements. Although skeptical at first, Joe was willing to experiment with acknowledging his successes. He’d list them, tell co-workers or his wife about them, or shoot a quick message about them to his coach. The goal was for him to digest the good stuff which would increase his internal sense of satisfaction and minimize the overwhelming feelings. Joe’s now focused on delegating and acknowledging himself — particularly when most stressed.

Calm Renews Energy

Soon, Joe felt more energy and excitement than he had in years. The new internal structure significantly increased the number of projects he delegated. He is much calmer and excited about his business. The acknowledgment part felt awkward at first, but he started to enjoy it as his energy for the business returned. How about you? Do you recognize your accomplishments on a daily basis before moving on to what’s next? Are there tasks you continue to do out of habit or need for control? Could you be delegating these tasks to give you more energy for other parts of your business that need more focus and attention?

Newsletter articles draw on actual client experiences. The names are changed to protect client privacy.