LEAKED
Level 3 • Cheat Code #14
How to Delegate Gracefully but Firmly
It's not what you hand off. It's how you say it.
THE PROBLEM
Most delegation fails because the conversation collapses: You're vague, they're confused, the system isn't aligned, and you end up taking the work back.
THE CHEAT CODE
An effective delegation conversation has three moves:
- Context — What's going on and why getting it right matters
- Ownership — What they're expected to deliver and when
- System alignment — Everyone agrees with this decision
When you hit all three, they don't just accept the task, they step into it.
⚡ WHAT TO DO RIGHT NOW
Use the box below to write your version of this 3-step handoff.
- CONTEXT: "I want to make sure our team's working at the right altitude, so I'm moving some responsibilities to where they can have more impact."
- OWNERSHIP: "I'd like you to take lead on this. Here's the outcome we need, here's the deadline, and here's what you can decide without looping me in."
- SYSTEM ALIGNMENT: "I've already synced with [manager/team], so they're aware you're the owner. If you run into friction, bring me options, not problems."
TRAP
TRAP
TRAP
THE TRAP
- Don't pile on apologies.
- Don't over explain.
- Don't keep secretly doing the work behind the scenes. Delegation is a transfer of power, not tasks.
YOUR SHADOW WORK
Write your reflections in the box below.
- What do you fear when you hand something off?
- Where do you soften your voice to avoid disappointing people?
- What would a clean, confident handoff sound like from you?
THE STRATEGIC TRUTH
People rise to the level of responsibility you communicate, not the one you secretly hope they figure out. Say it clearly, kindly, and with executive certainty.
Write your script
A powerful delegation conversation has three moves:
1. Context
2. Ownership
3. System alignment
When you hit all three, they don't just accept the task — they step into it.
EXAMPLE:
"Thanks for meeting. I'm shifting some work so we're all operating more strategically. I'd like you to take lead on this project. The goal is X by Y date, and you have full decision rights on A, B, and C. I've aligned with [manager/team], so you're fully supported as the owner. If anything blocks progress, bring me the options and I'll help clear the path."
CHEAT CODE COMPLETE
You've got the intel.
Now go make your move.
Ready to log your evidence?
Share your progress
STEP 1 / 7
Add Proof
Proof captured!
Claim a Win
Something changed at work? Document it!
0/200 characters
Win recorded.
This is how levels unlock.
▶ Clearance Upgrade
ACCESS
GRANTED
GRANTED
2
New Clearance Level Unlocked
From overlooked to unmistakable