❓How Do I Stop Being the Bottleneck in My Company?

You are the bottleneck if everything still flows through you, decisions, approvals, problems. You may even like it like that but it may be what is holding you back.

One of the reasons founders become bottlenecks is a lack of role clarity and trust in decision-making. People default to asking you when your systems are unclear or unsafe to act independently. They ask for permission when what they need is authority and clarity.

This is understandable, your ability and insights have served you well and got you to a point of success.

However, you may need to address some issues to enjoy scaleable growth in the future.

✅ Do this:

• Define “decision rights” using a delegation map
• Create clear roles and accountabilities (try RACI or Role Canvas to identify clearly who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted and Informed)
• Build a culture of decision ownership and authority with boundaries, to minimise permission-seeking
• Follow a problem solving procedure that demands at least three options to consider as solutions

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James’s insight: In aviation, we train crews to make time-critical decisions with shared intent, not constant checking. Procedures are defined and predictable critical issues are considered in simulation and various scenarios. Business teams need the same upgrade, clear frameworks, not founder dependency.

I have worked with teams to build purpose, autonomy and self mastery so that people can be trusted to do the right things and importantly, not do the wrong things.