Leaders Shouldn’t Try to Do It All by A.G. Lafley and Roger L. Martin - HBR

In today’s fast-paced world, many young entrepreneurs and college students in San Antonio find themselves struggling to balance productivity and leadership. The common belief is that working harder will lead to greater success, but in reality, that approach often leads to burnout. True leadership isn’t about working endlessly—it’s about working smart.

Imagine this: You’re passionate about your startup or climbing the corporate ladder, but your to-do list keeps growing. You’re handling everything yourself because it feels like only you can get it done right. Sound familiar? This is where the concept of comparative advantage, a theory from economics, comes into play in leadership.

Comparative advantage, first introduced by economist David Ricardo, isn’t just about international trade—it applies directly to how leaders should manage their time. Instead of doing everything, leaders should focus on the tasks they excel at and delegate the rest. It’s not about ignoring important tasks; it’s about prioritizing what only YOU can do best.

Take A.G. Lafley, former CEO of Procter & Gamble, for example. He turned around a struggling company by focusing on strategic leadership instead of micromanaging every aspect of the business. Likewise, Roger Martin transformed the Rotman School of Management by delegating financial management to a skilled administrator and focusing on innovation and fundraising. These leaders weren’t just busy—they were effective.

So how can you apply this to your own life? Here’s a four-step process to help you shift from overwhelmed to in control:

1. Eliminate Tasks That Don’t Require Your Unique Skills – Identify the tasks you’re doing simply because “that’s how it’s always been done.” If someone else can do it just as well, let them.

2. Delegate Tasks Where You Have Only a Small Advantage – Just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean you’re the best person for the job. Trust your team or colleagues.

3. Focus on Tasks That Play to Your Strengths – Spend your time on activities where you truly excel and bring unique value.

4. Prioritize What Only You Can Do – Some tasks require your personal touch, like strategic partnerships or key decision-making. Ensure you have enough time for these.

By following these steps, you’ll move from a leader drowning in work to one who drives real impact. Whether you're a first-generation college student hustling to build your future or a young entrepreneur navigating the business world, learning how to allocate your time wisely is key to success.

Curious to learn more? Read the full article to dive deeper into how top leaders implement this strategy and how you can apply it to your own journey!

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