As a leader, you’ve likely been told that delegation is key to productivity and success. But have you ever considered how you delegate? Are you simply handing off tasks, or are you staying engaged in a way that empowers and supports your team?
In this month’s issue of Elevate: Leadership and Performance, we’re exploring the difference between delegating and participating—and why the most effective leaders don’t just assign work, they actively foster collaboration and accountability.
Let’s dive in.
This Month's Focus: Delegating
Last month, we explored the differences between anabolic and catabolic leadership—how anabolic leaders lead while catabolic leaders manage. Now, let's take that concept further by looking at how these two leadership styles approach delegation.
Most of us have been taught that effective leaders delegate to get things done. But truly great leaders don’t just assign tasks—they participate.
According to Webster’s dictionary, “delegate” means to entrust to the care or management of another; to transfer; to assign; to commit. In contrast, “participate” means to partake of; to share in; to receive a part of.
When a catabolic leader delegates, they often wipe their hands of the task, checking in only to hold people accountable or give feedback once the work is done.
An anabolic leader, on the other hand, remains engaged—not by micromanaging, but by showing support, being available, and demonstrating that they’re willing to do what they ask of others.
Delegation in Action
Consider this scenario: A small business owner is expanding from two retail locations to three and assigns tasks to key staff.
In Catabolic Company A, the owner receives occasional progress reports but remains out of the picture until the project is completed. At that point, the staff are either praised or reprimanded based on their results.
In Anabolic Company B, the owner follows up frequently, stays connected with the team, and is even willing to roll up their sleeves when needed. The staff knows their leader is in the trenches with them, offering guidance and demonstrating commitment.
Which team do you think is more engaged and motivated? Which leader is more likely to command respect, foster loyalty, and inspire others to do their best work?
Your Challenge for This Month💡
Leading from a pedestal is not as effective as leading by example. This month, consider how you can shift from delegating to participating. How can you show your team that you’re truly with them?
A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. - John C Maxwell 🚀
Your Leadership Edge
This monthly newsletter is your go-to resource for mastering Energy Leadership—a powerful framework for understanding how energy impacts your effectiveness as a leader. Each issue explores practical insights and strategies to help you elevate your leadership, inspire others, and create extraordinary results.
To access past issues, visit www.amentacoaching.kit.com/subscribe.
