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Are you someone who works hard or someone who works smart? Have you lost track of how many books you have read on the subject of how to get organized? I have tried everything from expensive planners and software programs and finally I figured out what I really needed to do - learn to delegate.

Since there is never enough time to accomplish all the tasks on our lists, what stops us from delegating? Maybe it is because we think we must be organized before we can let someone help us (like the housewife who feels she must clean her house before the maid arrives)or are we just unwilling to give up control?

My suggestion is to start by viewing delegation as an "art". If we have a better attitude towards the person we are delegating it may help the process. Remember attitude is everything! Think about the difference of how you would respond to a request from someone whose tone was irritated, bossy, or condescending, as opposed to someone who had a kind and respectful tone. If you fail to approach the subject in the correct manner, either your helper will say no (given he or she has the choice), respond that he or she just doesn't have the time to help you or worst of all do the job not up to your standards thereby waisting more of your time. Phrases such as "I know you're busy but could you find the time to help me", or "Can I count on your help if my project becomes larger than life" really help in the "art" of delegation.

Of course, once you have delegated a task, you can't just walk away. It is essential that you make sure your delegated task is done properly or up to your standards. One of my boss' tactics was that that he had his assistants repeat in his or her words what needed to be done and what steps had to be taken in sequence in order to complete the task. This method all but eliminated misunderstandings down the road.

In order to bring the picture into its full color, delegating must be looked at as a puzzle with many different components leading to its success. The following are helpful views on the art of delegating:
1) When delegating make sure your assistant has a deadline, due date or check in date providing the time frame for the task.
2) If you ask for your assistant's commitment to the task, by saying yes out loud, the assistant has now personalized the project and will hopefully have self-pride in doing the job well done.
3) You must equip your assistant with the proper resources (phone numbers, equipment, cash) to complete the task.
4) You must make

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