Ask Stoics source guide · Stoicism at Work
Stoicism and Delegation
Delegation involves entrusting tasks to others, a practice that can be fraught with anxiety if one focuses on outcomes outside their control. Stoic philosophy offers a framework for approaching delegation by distinguishing between what is up to us and what is not. This approach helps clarify responsibilities and manage expectations, fostering a more tranquil and effective process.
On this page you will get a clear explanation, a way to examine the idea, exact evidence from public-domain Stoic texts, and links for continuing the study.
Defining Duty in Delegation
When delegating, it is crucial to clearly define the duty being assigned. This involves articulating the task's purpose and the expected standard of completion, ensuring the recipient understands their role.
A duty, when rightly begun, is a specific action or set of actions that one is expected to perform. The clarity of this definition is paramount for successful delegation, as it sets the foundation for the work.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.18
The Nature of Right Action
A 'right action' in delegation means that the task, when completed, aligns with the initial intention and standards. This requires careful initial planning and communication of those standards.
The act of restoring a deposit, for instance, is a duty. If done justly, it becomes a rightly performed duty, highlighting the importance of both the action and its manner of execution.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.18
Accepting External Factors
While you can define the duty and set expectations, the actual execution by another person is an external factor. The Stoic approach emphasizes accepting that their performance is not entirely within your control.
Focusing on what is within your power—the clarity of your instructions and the choice of the delegate—allows for a more rational engagement with the delegation process, rather than worrying about the outcome.
Sources: Epictetus, Discourses 1.6
The Role of Providence in Outcomes
Epictetus suggests that one can praise Providence by understanding the interconnectedness of things and having a grateful disposition. This perspective can be applied to delegation by recognizing the larger system at play.
Even if outcomes are not exactly as desired, a Stoic perspective encourages finding the utility in what happens and maintaining a thankful attitude for the opportunity to engage in the process.
Sources: Epictetus, Discourses 1.6
Choosing Your Collaborators
The quality of those you delegate to significantly impacts the process. Epictetus discusses the rarity of a true friend, implying that worthy collaborators are equally rare and valuable.
Just as a Cynic seeks a friend who shares their principles, one should seek delegates who are capable and aligned with the task's requirements, making the initial choice a critical internal action.
Sources: Epictetus, Discourses 3.22
Follow-Up and Feedback
While the execution is external, providing clear feedback and follow-up is an internal action within your control. This helps refine future delegation and supports the delegate's growth.
The wise person is not entirely inactive in natural things; similarly, in delegation, active engagement through clear communication and constructive feedback remains a duty.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.18
What the primary texts say
These excerpts keep their work and exact locator so you can check the claim in context rather than accepting a detached quotation.
“For since we see that there is something which we pronounce to have been rightly done (for that is duty when accomplished), there must also be something which is rightly begun: as, if to restore what has been justly deposited belongs to the class of right actions, then it must be classed among the duties to restore a deposit; and the addition of the word “justly” makes the duty to be rightly performed: but the mere fact of restoring is classed as…”
“From everything which is or happens in the world, it is easy to praise Providence, if a man possesses these two qualities, the faculty of seeing what belongs and happens to all persons and things, and a grateful disposition.”
“And where shall you find, I ask, a Cynic’s friend? For the man who invites ought to be such another as the Cynic that he may be worthy of being reckoned the Cynic’s friend.”
Frequently asked questions
How does Stoicism help with the anxiety of delegating important tasks?
Stoicism helps by distinguishing between what is within your control (setting clear duties, choosing delegates) and what is not (another's execution). This focus on internal actions reduces anxiety over external outcomes.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.18; Epictetus, Discourses 1.6
What is a 'rightly begun' duty in the context of delegation?
A 'rightly begun' duty in delegation means clearly defining the task and its standards from the outset. This ensures the delegate understands what is expected, laying a foundation for proper execution.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.18
Should I be concerned if a delegated task isn't performed exactly as I would have done it?
Stoicism suggests that while you can define the duty, the exact manner of another's execution is external. Focus on whether the duty was 'rightly performed' according to the agreed standard, rather than your personal preference.
Sources: Cicero, On Ends 3.18
How can I choose the right person to delegate to, from a Stoic perspective?
From a Stoic perspective, choosing the right person involves seeking someone capable and aligned with the task's requirements, much like a Cynic seeks a worthy friend. This choice is an internal action within your control.
Sources: Epictetus, Discourses 3.22
Continue with Ask Stoics
Bring one of these source-grounded questions into the app:
- How can I apply the dichotomy of control to my daily delegation practices?
- What is the Stoic view on managing expectations when delegating?
- How do I provide feedback on delegated tasks while adhering to Stoic principles?
- Can Stoicism help me accept imperfect outcomes in delegation?