Should you have an open-door policy as a business leader?

You know, it's funny how we've always been told that a great business leader should have an 'open door policy.' Always available, always in the thick of things, always watching over the shoulder of every team member.

But let me tell you, I've come to realize that some of the most effective leaders out there are actually quite the opposite.

Instead of getting tangled in the daily minutiae, these leaders empower their teams to the extreme. They focus on the big picture and engage only in high-leverage activities. And you know what? This approach is working wonders.

Why, you ask?

Well, here's the deal: when you're down in the weeds, you miss out on the real game-changers. Those monumental decisions that can make or break a business? You won't even see them if you're too busy micromanaging.

And let's talk about the big picture. If you're not taking the time to step back and really think about where your ship is headed, how can you possibly make those critical decisions that shape your company's destiny?

Sure, diving into the nitty-gritty tasks might make you feel productive, but in reality, you're just stuck in the tactical trenches when your true role is so much more.

I've found that a whopping 99% of the problems that crop up in an organization are actually distractions. It's like being the captain of a ship, worrying about the drink order for a passenger in seat 32A while the real course needs to be set.

But guess what? You don't have to fall into this trap. You don't have to be everything for everybody. It's not your job to personally solve every issue, smooth over every customer concern, or sharpen every blade on the metaphorical lawnmower.

No, your job is much bigger than that.

Your role as a leader is to steer the ship, to make those pivotal decisions that set the course for your entire team. It's about managing the livelihoods of all your employees by making the right calls at the top. And trust me, nobody else can do this job quite like you can.

Imagine a major league slugger getting up to the plate in the bottom of the 9th inning, only to pause the game and help out the concession stand cashier. It's absurd, right? Well, the same goes for you. You've got a unique skill set, a perspective, and a set of responsibilities that can't be duplicated.

I often get asked how I manage to run multiple companies while still finding time for golf, family, exercise, and vacations. And I always respond the same way: I don't run them. I've teamed up with partners who run each company, who hold equity and bring expertise to the table.

Now, don't get me wrong. I'm there when they need me, when a big problem arises or a crucial decision has to be made. But I've learned not to get pulled into the weeds, not to let myself become the go-to solution for every challenge.

And you know what? This mindset shift has made all the difference. It's like a weight off my shoulders. Instead of drowning in the small stuff, I'm free to focus on the game-changing moves that truly drive success.

Here's the thing: making this shift isn't easy. It's tempting to dive into the tactical, to work those long hours and feel productive. But the real challenge lies in stepping back, in trusting others to handle the day-to-day while you take charge of the bigger picture.

So, my challenge to you this week is to step out of the weeds. Let your managers know that you're entrusting them with decisions. Focus on the uncomfortable, the decisions you've been putting off. Embrace your role as a leader and seize the opportunity to shape your company's destiny.

Remember, it's not about being everything for everybody. It's about being the visionary, the strategist, the captain of the ship. And trust me, that's a role that only you can fulfill.