One of the top reasons people give me for not delegating to a Virtual Assistant is that they are Control Freaks. I’ve worked with several clients to curb this issue, and have had some success. But then I got to thinking… is being a control freak such a bad thing? Is it possible to become a really GOOD control freak? Like Glinda the good witch…
So I turned it around with the notion that most people would like a little more control and consistency in their businesses. No one likes the feeling of being battered by external forces that can’t be controlled.
To start the process of becoming a good Control Freak (remember – think Glinda!), I came up with this list of things that are 100% controllable.
1. Attitude and Mindset
2. Goal Setting
3. Time Management
4. Follow-up
5. “One Thing”*
Strangely, I’m starting to believe that in order to delegate effectively, you have to become a proficient Control Freak first. I’m starting a certification course, in fact!
If you’d like to argue with me, go ahead, but I’m convinced that if you make a decision to be 100% responsible for these 5 things, your life will completely change. You’ll be managing the things you have authority over, rather than struggling to change the things over which you don’t.
And these aren’t airy fairy concepts (no offense to Glinda). These are get-up-in-the-morning and put-them-to-work strategies. All you have to do is decide to own them, and then systemize the process.
I’ll keep you posted on the Control Freak certification program!
* Wondering about #5? Remember Curly’s “One Thing” from City Slickers? Just like in life, I believe in business there is one critical activity that all progress radiates out from. It’s one of the key strategies I work on with my clients.
