Pay for Easy
#465: Why Paying More Saves Your Most Valuable Asset
Algorithms, we hate them, but they can be useful. Now that I am semi-retired, I have to admit that I do catch myself scrolling a bit more through social media. Not a great use of my time, unless every once in a while we get a good nugget of an idea. And the other day I did.
As I was scrolling, searching, and using AI to find new hobbies, the algorithm kicked in, and a reel popped into my feed. It was almost a caricature of me, but in a cardigan sweater. The talking head was giving advice, and it was three simple words: “pay for easy.” As a retiree or someone in the latter seasons of life, the most valuable asset you have is not your investments or your real estate; it’s your time. The video went on to offer a few suggestions, like paying someone to mow your lawn if it's easier than doing it yourself. Save the time for something else you want to do. Pay for the direct flight instead of one with multiple connections. Save the time, not the money!
If I were a life coach, I would stop right there, lesson learned! However, as a business and leadership coach, how can I translate this to your business?
Delegation & Empowerment
My clients often fall into the trap of trying to do everything themselves or hunting for the cheapest option, which burns hours that could be spent on growth, strategy, or personal recharge. One exercise I ask new clients to complete is an inventory of how they spend their time. It is a bit tedious to go through, but the results are eye-opening. All you need is a legal pad! (and a little discipline for the week)
Separate your page into 4 columns:
Task
Only Me (You’re the only one who can or ever will do this, e.g., disciplining a team member, opening key meetings, or core strategic decisions unique to you.)
Others Trained (Someone else is already trained and qualified.)
Can Train (Others could be trained to handle this.)
Every 15 minutes throughout the week, jot down the task you just completed or are working on, and put an X in the fitting column. At week’s end, tally the 15-minute chunks in each column. You’ll likely discover two things:
You spent far too much time on tasks that others are trained (or could be trained) to do.
That leaves less time for the high-leverage “Only Me” work that truly moves the needle.
Now ask yourself: What goals were delayed? How many family dinners or soccer games did you miss? Start delegating those things in the 3rd column, and start training others for the tasks in the 4th column! Delegate & Empower! This one shift, delegating ruthlessly, reclaims huge chunks of your most valuable asset.
If you are already a master delegator, here are a few other suggestions:
Choose direct flights for business travel, and making decisions!
Hours in between connection flights all add up, it’s worth a few bucks, and there are fewer opportunities for flights to be canceled! Pay a bit more for top talent; they will be more efficient at onboarding and deliver results faster. Remember the old adage, service, quality, price - pick two. Pay for higher quality and better service; in the end, you will save time and money.
Pay for the premium tools
Using free versions of tools such as CRM or AI platforms offers some benefits, but upgrading to increase their effectiveness is worthwhile. Time saved on manual work or clunky interfaces compounds quickly.
Stop the DIY mentality
Look first for who can do it easily, fastest, and with fewer headaches. Stop using the IKEA method of building a business; you will always end up with leftover nuts and bolts (and wasted weekends).
Eliminate friction in your processes
Audit everything, from communications to manufacturing. Ask yourself: Is this the easiest and fastest way to get something done? Do we need five signatures on a vacation request? Empower team members to manage their own time and decisions where possible!
Hire consultants, coaches, and fractional experts.
When you’re stuck, experts (fractional CFOs, marketers, operations pros) shortcut the pain. Leadership isn’t solo problem-solving; it’s equipping your organization to solve them faster and better.
“Pay for easy” isn’t about being lazy; it’s about being strategic with your irreplaceable time. Where in your business are you still trading hours for marginal savings? Try the time inventory this week and share what you uncover in the comments.
We would all love to hear your breakthroughs.