quiet fridays newsletter #7:Delegation without draining your energy
Delegation. For introverts, handing off tasks can feel like giving away a piece of your sanity. The follow-ups, check-ins, and endless feedback loops? Exhausting.
But here’s the deal: skipping delegation isn’t an option. If you want to grow into a strong leader, you have to empower your team—without micromanaging yourself into burnout.
As John C. Maxwell puts it:
"A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way."
Insight:
Delegation is an Energy Game
Delegation isn’t about losing control—it’s about protecting your energy.
Introverts often:
✔ Over-explain, fearing others won’t “get it”
✔ Micromanage, thinking it’s the only way
✔ Avoid delegating altogether
The fix? Clarity + trust.
✔ Focus on outcomes, not just tasks (What does “done well” actually look like?)
✔ Empower, don’t hover (Ownership > 47-step instructions)
✔ Detach from the “how” (Does it get done? That’s what matters.)
Less overthinking, more actual leading.
Inspiration:
The Delegation Matrix: Take the Red Pill and Let Go
The Eisenhower Matrix—aka the "Urgent-Important Matrix"—comes from Dwight D. Eisenhower (the U.S. President), who somehow led WWII, launched NASA, built the interstate highway system, and still found time to golf—knew how to prioritise. He famously said:
"What is important is seldom urgent, and what is urgent is seldom important."
That’s the key to delegation. If Eisenhower could trust others to handle major tasks, you can probably delegate that report review.
👉 Download the [Eisenhower Matrix for Delegation] to stop drowning in work and start leading with ease.
Reflections
Where’s Delegation Draining You?
Think about the last time delegation left you feeling more tired than just doing it yourself.
✔ Was it the fear of losing control?
✔ Did you feel your team wasn’t capable?
✔ Did you overcomplicate things with too many details?
Stephen Covey said: “The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”
This week, ask yourself:
What’s one thing I could delegate—and actually feel good about?
Delegation isn’t about letting go of work—it’s about making space for growth—yours and your team’s.
Sadaf Javed
Executive Coach & Founder
P.S. Struggling to delegate without burning out? My coaching helps introverted leaders like you empower your team while protecting your energy, <let’s talk>
