Let’s cut the crap: your time is your most valuable asset. If you’re spending it on tasks that don’t directly grow your business or your income, you’re throwing money away.
Here’s the rule: if the task is worth less than $250 an hour, you shouldn’t be doing it. That’s not arrogance—it’s math. Your focus should be on high-impact activities, not the busywork you can (and should) delegate. Let’s break this down and show you how to stop sabotaging your business by undervaluing your time.
Why Your Time Is Worth More Than You Think
As an entrepreneur, your job isn’t to do everything—it’s to do the things that only you can do. Here’s why:
- High-value activities drive growth: Strategy, sales, and innovation create revenue and opportunities.
- Time is finite: Every hour you spend on low-value tasks is an hour you can’t get back.
- Your expertise is irreplaceable: Outsourcing tasks frees you to focus on your strengths.
If you’re not prioritizing high-return work, you’re limiting your growth.
The $250 Rule: How to Calculate Your Time’s Value
Not sure if a task is worth your time? Here’s how to figure it out:
- Set Your Hourly Rate
What’s your income goal? Divide it by the number of hours you’re willing to work annually. Example:
- Goal: $250,000/year
- Hours: 1,000/year
- Hourly Rate: $250
- Evaluate Each Task
Ask yourself: Would it cost less than my hourly rate to outsource this task? If the answer is yes, delegate it. - Focus on ROI
Spend your time on activities that generate more than your hourly rate—like closing sales, building partnerships, or creating products.
What to Stop Touching Right Now
Here are the tasks most entrepreneurs should delegate immediately:
- Admin Work: Email management, data entry, and scheduling.
- Social Media: Posting, engagement, and analytics.
- Accounting: Bookkeeping, invoicing, and tax prep.
- Customer Service: Responding to inquiries, troubleshooting, and support.
If someone else can do it for less than your hourly rate, let them.
The Cost of Doing It All Yourself
Still not convinced? Here’s what happens when you cling to low-value tasks:
- Burnout: You spread yourself too thin, leaving no energy for big-picture thinking.
- Missed Opportunities: Busywork keeps you from pursuing high-impact projects.
- Stalled Growth: Your business can’t scale if you’re stuck in the weeds.
Every hour you spend on a $20 task is an hour you’re not earning $250. Do the math.
How to Start Buying Back Your Time
Outsourcing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to get started:
1. Identify Time-Sucking Tasks
Track your workweek and list tasks that don’t directly grow your business.
2. Delegate in Phases
Start with one task, like hiring a virtual assistant for scheduling or email management.
3. Use Tools to Automate
Invest in software to handle repetitive tasks like invoicing, project management, or social media scheduling.
4. Focus on High-Value Activities
Reinvest the time you’ve saved into activities that align with your strengths and drive growth.
FAQs
How do I know if a task is worth delegating?
Calculate your hourly rate and compare it to the cost of outsourcing. If it costs less to delegate, it’s worth it.
What if I can’t afford to hire help yet?
Start small. Use tools or hire freelancers for a few hours a week to free up time gradually.
How do I trust someone else to handle my tasks?
Start with clear instructions, test with low-stakes tasks, and build trust over time.
Isn’t it better to save money by doing everything myself?
No. The time you waste on low-value tasks could be spent earning more by focusing on high-impact work.
What if I enjoy some low-value tasks?
That’s fine—but be honest about whether they’re worth your time compared to your hourly rate.
How do I avoid micromanaging once I delegate?
Focus on outcomes, not processes. Set clear expectations and give your team room to succeed.
Conclusion: A Personal Note from Chris
I used to think doing everything myself was smart. It felt like I was saving money, being efficient, and staying in control. But the truth? I was sabotaging my business by spending hours on sh*t someone else could do for $20 an hour.
Here’s what I’ve learned: your time is the most valuable asset you have. If you’re stuck in the busywork, you’re leaving money and growth on the table. Start small, trust the process, and focus on what you do best.
If it’s under $250, don’t touch it. Let go of the small stuff and watch how quickly you scale. You’ve got this—now go reclaim your time.
