I don’t write about the three questions regularly these days, but that doesn’t mean they don’t impact me. After all, this blog is named after them.
Just a quick refresher, the three questions are:
- What needs to be done? (Awareness)
- What can I do? (Willingness)
- Who can I get to help? (Leadership)
Every person sees these differently, and each person hesitates on a different one. Some people have a hard time naturally seeing what needs to be done, whereas others have a somewhat intrinsic ability to see a need.
Some people find it difficult to find the motivation to do a task, or view tasks as beneath them. The reality, however, is if we want to lead, we have to be willing to do something. The best leaders rarely lead without getting their hands dirty.
Others wrestle with asking people to help. It’s just easier (and more efficient) to do it ourselves. Which is true. But it’s poor leadership. Eventually leaders who never share the load will be crushed by it.
The third question, however, morphs into an exponent when utilized correctly. The math is simple: if I can accomplish three tasks, three tasks get done. If I can invite someone to help me, and they can accomplish three tasks in addition to my three tasks, six tasks are completed. If each of us, asking the third question, invite someone else to join us, the number jumps to twelve. Best of all, I’m able to focus on the three tasks best suited to my gifts and abilities.
So, why is it so difficult to answer the 3rd question?
Pride. I can do a better job.
Insecurity. What if they can do it better than me.
Superhero mentality. If it’s going to get done, I have to be the one to do it.
Control. It has to be done my way.
Leadership is risky. That’s what makes it so challenging, but that’s also what makes it so rewarding.
So, what task or responsibility are you clutching today? Who around you is starving for an opportunity to help, and you won’t let them. Who is waiting for an invitation to unlock their potential? What are you waiting for?