188: The Small Team Strategy: How Breaking Into Groups Can Supercharge Your Projects

In today’s episode, I’m sharing a strategy that has transformed how my team tackles big projects: working in smaller, focused groups. Whether you’re running a team of 13 like I am or collaborating with peers on a shared goal, breaking into smaller groups can unlock efficiency, foster deeper collaboration, and help everyone take ownership of their role.

I discuss how this approach works within my own projects, such as launching Flowerie, our e-commerce shop, and producing Immersion Live, our annual conference. I also introduce two powerful frameworks—Dan Martell’s 1-3-1 framework and the 10-80-10 delegation model—that can streamline decision-making and empower your team to work independently while still aligning with your vision.

Here’s how these concepts come to life:

• The 1-3-1 framework requires team members to come to you with one problem, three solutions, and one recommendation. It reduces your decision-making burden while strengthening their problem-solving skills.
• The 10-80-10 model allows you to shape a project’s vision, let your team handle the bulk of the work, and return for the final touches. It’s all about empowering your team while preserving your creative input.

No matter the size of your team, these strategies ensure smoother project execution and foster a culture of trust and efficiency. Tune in to learn how these simple but effective tools can elevate your creative business and help you step into your zone of genius.

When it's everybody's responsibility, it's no one's responsibility.

Key Takeaways

• Breaking into smaller groups sharpens focus, fosters collaboration, and helps team members take ownership of their work.
• The 1-3-1 framework enables your team to approach you with fully formed solutions, saving time and building confidence.
• The 10-80-10 delegation model keeps you involved in the most critical parts of a project while empowering your team to execute the bulk of the work.
• Delegation, done right, can help you stay in your zone of genius and reduce burnout.
• Trusting your team with ownership and providing clear structures leads to better outcomes and a stronger, more capable team.

Resources:

• Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell
• Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink

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Review of the week: 

BEST CREATIVE GAL TO HAVE ON YOUR CREATIVE JOURNEY

What I love about Bonnie and her podcast is she makes dreams feel possible. Starting at zero, she tells her story candidly along side impactful instructions, tips, and business know-how's. I'm in the process of learning surface pattern design and I always feel in good hands when I'm here.

— Terra Kind

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