On Delegation

Blessings, Courageous Ones!

Let’s talk about delegation!  From the World English Dictionary, to delegate is to “give or commit (duties, powers, etc.) to another as agent or representative.”  How can I best delegate as a Leader? How willing am I to delegate tasks?  Which tasks can be delegated to others?  Which tasks cannot be delegated, and why?

I like to think that I am fairly skilled at delegation; I am able to see which duties are acceptable to pass on to others and I am able to assess the skill level of those who are willing to help so that they can be paired with the proper task.  I know, though, that there is always room for improvement.  Where am I holding on too tightly, and why?

Quality delegating requires setting clear Expectations, and allowing others complete freedom to say “no” if they do not feel they have the time, interest, or skillset for the task at hand.  Those who are choosing to help should feel that they are doing so freely, without pressure.  Good Service is joyful, loving Service that is fulfilling for the person doing it.

What do I look for in a person to whom I would delegate a task?  Integrity:  does the person consistently keep her word?  Can I count on her to do what she says she is going to do?  Service:  does she serve because she is called to it, or is she looking for fame, accolades, or special treatment?  Generosity:  is she open-minded and able to give to others selflessly when necessary, while also able to hold her own boundaries gracefully?  Does she Serve because she feels like she “has to?”  Does she approach her duties with a good attitude or with grumbling and martyr-like behavior?

When a woman comes to ritual and wants to help, it is important to always have an assignment available.  Can the woman light the altar candles?  The incense?  Can she help newcomers to settle in?  Lead the drumming?  Share a song? A prayer?  A blessing?  Can she help create the altar?  When a woman feels that her gift of help is freely and appreciatively received, she becomes more invested in the ritual and therefore, in the group as a whole.  She takes ownership of her experience and helps to facilitate the experiences of others.

What tasks are not okay to delegate?  This is a difficult question for me to answer right now.  Perhaps a task which, if completed inappropriately, would not align with the vision of the group or reflect poorly on our shared values.  Perhaps a task that, if left undone, would cause hardship for the group.  I continue to muse on this.

I invite you to share your thoughts!  Which tasks do you routinely delegate in your group?  Which tasks do you not think are okay to delegate?

Blessed be,

Jesamyn Angelica

HP, Sisterhood of the Moon