Delegation is a buzzword in leadership, but not all delegation is created equal.
In fact, there’s a significant difference between task assignment and strategic delegation, and understanding this distinction is critical for anyone looking to improve their well-being, increase efficiency, and empower others. Both approaches have value—but they serve different purposes and require different levels of effort and intentionality.

Task Assignment: The Power of Outsourcing
Let’s start with task assignment, which is often what people think of when they hear the word “delegation.” Task assignment is straightforward—it involves handing off specific tasks, usually ones that don’t require much decision-making or creativity, to someone else.
This might look like:
• Paying someone to clean your house or mow your lawn.
• Hiring a virtual assistant to manage your calendar or inbox.
• Asking someone to make copies for a meeting or order supplies.
The goal of task assignment is to free up your time and energy by removing items from your to-do list. It doesn’t necessarily create opportunities for growth for the person completing the task, but it does allow you to focus on higher-priority responsibilities.
Task assignment is especially useful in your personal life. Outsourcing things like meal prep, household chores, or errands can create space for more meaningful activities, like spending quality time with family or investing in self-care.
Strategic Delegation: Empowering and Developing Others
On the other hand, strategic delegation is about more than just handing off a task—it’s about transferring both authority and decision-making power to someone else. This approach is particularly valuable in professional settings and leadership roles because it allows the person receiving the task to develop new skills and take ownership.
For example, strategic delegation might involve:
• Allowing a team member to lead a project or presentation.
• Asking a colleague to make key decisions on a shared initiative.
• Mentoring someone as they take on responsibilities that were once yours.
When you delegate strategically, you send a powerful message: “I trust you, I value your growth, and I believe in your ability to succeed.” This not only empowers your team but also creates a sense of collaboration and shared purpose.
Why Delegation (Both Task Assignment and Strategic Delegation) Matters
Whether you’re outsourcing a task or empowering someone through strategic delegation, learning to delegate effectively is a game-changer for your well-being. Here are the top five reasons why delegation is worth the effort:
1. It Reduces Overload and Prevents Burnout
Trying to do everything yourself is a surefire path to burnout. Delegation allows you to focus on what truly matters while reducing stress and overwhelm.
2. It Creates Space for Creativity and Purpose
When you’re bogged down with tasks that others could handle, it’s hard to make room for big-picture thinking or work that aligns with your purpose. Delegation clears the way for you to focus on what lights you up.
3. It Develops Others and Builds Stronger Teams
Strategic delegation creates opportunities for those around you to learn, grow, and contribute in meaningful ways. This strengthens your team and improves morale.
4. It Increases Efficiency and Productivity
Delegating to the right person can lead to faster, more efficient outcomes because they may have expertise or capacity that you don’t.
5. It Demonstrates Trust and Strengthens Relationships
Delegation is a sign of trust. When done well, it builds stronger relationships by showing others that you believe in their abilities.
How to Delegate Effectively
Delegation, especially strategic delegation, can feel overwhelming at first. But with intentionality and a good plan, it becomes easier and more effective over time. Here are six strategies to help you delegate with confidence:
1. Identify What to Delegate
Start by making a list of everything on your plate. Identify tasks that:
• Don’t require your specific expertise or input.
• Could help someone else develop new skills.
• Are time-consuming but not high-value.
2. Choose the Right Person
Match the task to the person who is most equipped to handle it. Consider their skills, interests, and current workload. For strategic delegation, think about who would benefit from the opportunity to grow.
3. Be Clear About Expectations
Clearly communicate what needs to be done, why it’s important, and what success looks like. Provide any necessary resources or context, but avoid micromanaging.
4. Transfer Authority, Not Just Responsibility
If you’re delegating strategically, give the person decision-making power along with the task. This shows trust and allows them to take ownership.
5. Offer Support and Feedback
Check in periodically to offer guidance, answer questions, or provide feedback. Support is important, but remember to give them space to solve problems and make decisions.
6. Reflect and Adjust
After the task or project is complete, reflect on how the delegation process went. What worked well? What could be improved next time? Use this insight to refine your approach.
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak about strategic delegation at the SoMe Docs Women in Leadership Conference. During the session, I shared how I’ve applied these principles in my own work, from managing clinical teams to balancing my coaching practice and personal life. I shared how I initially was bad at delegation, but then learned how to do it more effectively.
One of the most impactful moments in my career came when I delegated a major project to a colleague. At first, I worried about letting go of control, but watching them step up, make decisions, and deliver an incredible outcome was a reminder of how powerful delegation can be.
You can still catch this conference OnDemand by registering here!
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched too thin, or unsure how to start delegating, I’d love to help. Delegation is a skill that can transform your work, your well-being, and your relationships—and it’s something we can work on together.
Schedule a free strategy call with me, and let’s create a plan to help you delegate with confidence and purpose on your way to find joy at home and work.
Click here to book your call, or send me a message to get started. Together, we’ll identify where you can lighten your load, empower others, and make more room for what matters most.
Delegation—whether it’s task assignment or strategic delegation—has the power to transform your life and the lives of those around you. It’s time to free yourself from overwhelm and embrace the possibility of doing less while achieving more. Let’s get started on your journey to balance, purpose, and joy.
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