We as a species have evolved into an “always-on,” “every task is critical,” “self-important” successful business leaders. There’s a pervasive myth: the idea that constant hands-on management and a never-ending stream of work is the hallmark of success. The feeling that you are so interwoven into the DNA of your business that you cannot take time off or let others do your tasks.
But, let’s challenge this notion because I believe true success, or what I like to call “Personal Business Nirvana,” is achieved when your presence isn’t a necessity for your business to thrive. THAT’S RIGHT, you should be able to take a long weekend off and never have to check in. It’s about creating a system so robust and efficient that it allows you the freedom to step away, whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or the head of a large organization.
But, But, But, If I’m Not needed, What Am I Actually Doing?
One of my friends, the general manager of a large car dealership, asked, “if I’m not needed won’t they just replace me, or cut my position?”
Of course not, because you’re now more valuable than ever. When you’ve reached Personal Business Nirvana, you can step back and actually run the business, think through the big picture problems and see your vision through to fruition. More importantly, you can be the leader that you were designed to be. Once you have the ability to delegate responsibilities to other people, or automate with CRM systems, your value actually increases dramatically.
Don’t Be The “Hit By a Bus” Kinda of Guy or Gal
In my younger days, I was in a stagnant job, because I believed I was the most valuable person there. I was the only one who knew how to manage the large processes that make the company tick. I was a one-man band. It was exhausting, but in my 30s I thought that was what the company wanted from me.
I remember sitting in a parking lot or our hotel, trying to connect to Wi-Fi while my wife and kids were waiting to go to Disney, as I worked on tasks that I could’ve easily delegated. I could never disconnect, I felt too self-important.
Thank God, my boss straightened me out one day. He took me aside and said, “Don’t be that guy that if he’s hit by a bus, the company stops running. That simply irresponsible, and is not good for the company you work for or for your own personal health.”
I never thought of it that way, I always thought that the more important I made myself, the more valuable I became. I never realized the owners were thinking that I was actually dangerous to the company.
So I hired a second, and eventually a third, and before long, I was not managing the team myself. Instead, I was directing and soon became project manager, acquisitions manager and ultimately CMO of the company.
As soon as I replaced myself, I was able to grow to the next level, and became invaluable in a different way.
The Illusion of Indispensability to be Successful
Many entrepreneurs and business leaders fall into the trap of believing that their business can’t function without their constant oversight. There’s a certain ego boost in feeling indispensable, but this is a dangerous mindset. If a business can’t operate without you, it’s not just a business; it’s a job. You’re essentially tethered to it, which isn’t sustainable in the long run.
The Power of Delegation and Automation to Become Successful
The key to achieving this Business Nirvana lies in two main strategies: delegation and automation.
- Delegation: Putting the Right Players in the Right Positions
- Delegation is not just about offloading tasks; it’s about empowering your team. It involves putting the right people in the right roles, with the right training, and then trusting them to do their job without micromanaging. This doesn’t mean relinquishing control. It means cultivating a team that’s capable of operating efficiently in your absence. It’s about creating leaders, not followers.
My father used to say: “delegate than investigate.” in other words, empower people to do their jobs, but then check in from time to time to make sure that they are actually completing the tasks you assigned them. This is a much less stressful management method for both of you, and it holds people accountable
- Delegation is not just about offloading tasks; it’s about empowering your team. It involves putting the right people in the right roles, with the right training, and then trusting them to do their job without micromanaging. This doesn’t mean relinquishing control. It means cultivating a team that’s capable of operating efficiently in your absence. It’s about creating leaders, not followers.
- Automation: Let Technology Do the Heavy Lifting
- For solo entrepreneurs and large businesses alike, automation can be your co-pilot. With the advancements in technology, especially in CRM systems, tasks that used to consume hours can now be automated. From customer interactions to sales pipelines, and even basic administrative tasks, these systems can keep your business running smoothly while you’re away.
The Long Weekend Test
A good litmus test of your business’s independence is the ‘long weekend test’. Can you take a long weekend off without your phone ringing off the hook? Are there systems in place ensuring that things are moving along, even in your absence? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right path.
The Benefits of Redundancy on your quest to become successful
Having a business that can run without you doesn’t just afford you personal freedom. It also adds to the value of your business. A company that’s dependent on its founder is a risky proposition for investors and potential buyers. On the other hand, a self-sustaining business is far more attractive and valuable.
Bottom Line: Embrace Your Redundancy and Flourish
In conclusion, strive to make yourself redundant. It might sound counterintuitive, but it’s the epitome of business success. When your business functions perfectly well without you, you’ve not only created something sustainable and scalable, but you’ve also achieved true Business Nirvana – the ultimate freedom to enjoy life outside work while knowing your business is thriving. This isn’t just success; it’s smart, sustainable, and truly fulfilling entrepreneurship.
