Who, Not How: The Key to Achieving More

Stop Asking “How” and Start Asking “Who” to Get More Done

Ever feel stuck trying to figure out how to do something? Maybe you have a big idea but no clue how to make it happen. Or maybe you’re drowning in tasks, thinking, “How can I do all of this?” Here’s the plain truth: You’re asking the wrong question. Instead of asking how, ask who.

Entrepreneurs often believe they have to do everything themselves. After all, they know their business inside and out. They can write the best sales copy, manage their employees the best, and produce the best product. But this mindset comes with a cost. This mindset will lead you down the road of ineffective performance and reduced impact. Instead of growing their business, you’ll be stuck in the weeds, handling things someone else could do better and faster. You may not like to admit it, but there are many things you are doing that can be done by others so you can focus on your highest impact activities.

Every person has unique talents. Some are great at sales. Others love designing, writing, or organizing. Find the work that excites you—the kind that makes you lose track of time because you’re so into it. Additionally, if you’re looking to make a big impact, focus on exponential tasks.

• “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” Helen Keller

The key to finding the right who is finding someone whose unique strengths fit the job role. When people work in jobs that match their skills and passions, they thrive. They become more productive, enjoy their work, and even make more money because they’re excelling in the right position. It’s a win-win—you get the help you need, and they get to shine in a role that fits them perfectly. Here’s how to find the right who:

• Identify what’s slowing you down. What tasks drain your energy or take too long? What tasks are not making a huge impact on bringing you closer to your goals.
• Look for someone who already knows how to do it. Determine whether they are well suited for the job by examining such things as job performance and job satisfaction.
• Trust them to do their job. Let go of control and let your who work their magic.

The best entrepreneurs aren’t the ones who do the most work. They’re the ones who build the best teams. When you stop asking how and start asking who, you free yourself to focus on what truly matters—growing your business and making a bigger impact. So, next time you feel overwhelmed, remember: The answer isn’t in learning how to do everything. It’s in finding the right who to help you win.