Controlling, dominating, leading—are these words that can describe you when you take on a project? If so, watch out—you are about to take on the project of a lifetime and you are going to have to give up some of that control and learn to delegate!
The most difficult part of delegating is relying on others to complete tasks the way you want them done and when you need them done. If you are like me, you’d rather do it yourself and get it right, so you don’t have to spend your time frantically worrying if someone else is taking care of the job. But, as you are probably finding out, planning a wedding is a huge job! Now is the time to delegate smartly!
If you are typically someone who likes to manage projects, do just that. Take control ahead of time and decide who you would like to help with what task. Many people will offer to take on a task. It will be helpful to you to have their job decided ahead of time. Then you can be sure it is a job you want to give away rather than keep yourself.
How should you delegate your tasks?
· Make a (long) list of everything that must be done for the big day. Then mark the tasks are most important to you and do those yourself. Save your least important tasks and for someone else.
· Think of the people who may want to get involved in your planning (i.e.: mother, FMIL, sister, etc.). Do any of them have any special talents that would contribute to your wedding? If so, make a note of that so you will remember when assigning tasks.
· Make sure you are firm if someone starts doing tasks without consulting you, or requests a task you would rather do. Thank the person for their offer, but if it will cause you stress to give your favorite job away, don’t feel obligated to do it. It may cause issues in the future if they do something you are unhappy with, or worse yet, don’t complete the task at all.
What are some good tasks to delegate?
Before you begin delegating take a look at your list of things to do as a reminder of what to give away and what to keep for yourself. Do you have your name next to most of the jobs? Don’t worry—it is hard to leave everything in another’s hands! Many of your tasks could be a team effort. Include your mother by inviting her to go dress shopping with you. If your future-in-laws are paying for the rehearsal dinner, invite them along to scope out venues.
Who should I delegate tasks to?
Who is asking to help? Again, go back to your list of people who you think may want to help, and review their talents. Is your sister a good artist? She may be able to pick up calligraphy quickly and address your invitations. Is FMIL good at sewing? She may be able to help make your veil.
What will keep you sane?
· When you give someone a task, make sure you agree on what the end result should be. There is usually not a lot of time for re-dos!
· Make sure they are responsible. Yes, it’s great that Aunt Sally offered to make your favors, but will she ever get around to it? If you find you cannot turn down her offer, make sure to have a back-up plan.
· Give deadlines. Make sure your helper knows the absolute day that you need the task completed.
· If you really have a hard time delegating, it’s fine to check-in every so often with the person to see how it is going and if they need a hand. (Try not to call everyday!)
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