Create Your ‘Do Not Do’ List
Are you a recovering overfunctioner?
Better yet, do you WANT to be in recovery?
There are many ways to overfunction in life. In business, it looks like having so much on your plate that you’re a pro at busyness, yet lack actual productivity.
I have a client that is notorious for putting every task, big or small on her ‘To Do’ list. We’ve been on many calls as she’s talked through her task list and she hasn’t identified a single one to delegate.
During those calls, I silently wonder, what's the purpose of my role here, if I'm never asked to do anything? In those moments I have to gently remind her that she’s not in this alone and usually ask, ‘what can I do to support you?'
On days when I feel especially feisty, I repeat back the tasks she's not 'permitted' to do herself. This gives her the opportunity to re-evaluate her list and identify resources to use.
So, how can YOU recover from overfunctioning in your business?
Admit the Problem.
The first step is always admitting the problem. Wherever you are at this moment, speak this truth, “My name is _______, and I am a recovering overfunctioner.”
[all together now] Hi, _____!
"You can do anything, but you can't do everything." - David Allen. I am here to tell you that it is OKAY to clear your plate. Focus your energy on being excellent at what you're excellent at! Just be sure to build an equally as excellent support team around you.
Identify Your Non-Negotiables.
The next step is to make a list of your key business functions and identify your non-negotiable tasks.
Examples of Key Business Functions
- Bookkeeping & Accounting
- Audience Engagement
- Revenue Generation
- Product / Service Fulfillment
- Content Creation
A non-negotiable task is something that must be done by you as the business owner. The items listed above are important. But the only true non-negotiable is Revenue Generation. You ARE the business owner – you are responsible for running a profitable business.
The other tasks on the list can definitely be delegated and outsourced. Using this example, this is the start of your ‘Do Not Do’ list. Think of how much time you'd regain in the day by delegating tasks currently on your personal 'To Do' list.
What are you waiting for?
Let It Go
Your last and most critical step is to find the resources and support to handle those 'Do Not Do' tasks on your behalf. Depending on the task some training may need to take place for a smooth transition. You may even need to write a procedure or two - get those processes out of your head! The hours recovered in your day or week will be well worth the investment of your efforts.
It won't always be easy - but taking these steps will set you on the path for a full recovery.
Want to know how 31 Marketplace can help you recover from overfunctioning? Awesome! Click HERE to schedule a FREE Virtual Chat with La'Vista to discuss your business needs.