The reason for many business failures is traceable to the person at the "top."

In my company, I blame myself whenever there's a big problem. It's all on me. Recently, we saw an increase in shipping issues—we ship commercial aircraft parts (engines, avionics, oh my) worldwide. This is a high-risk problem, as the parts aren't cheap, and neither are the shipping costs.

The problem fell on me, no matter who or what the problem could be attributed to. It's a core function of our business, and I must ensure its systems and people are optimized for peak performance.

I let this pillar's standards become complacent (see question number 4).

You, too, might unknowingly be causing a business bottleneck. Even the best of us can choke up the engine without realizing it.

Audit yourself by asking these questions:

Question 1: Is Your Big Objective Clear?

A clear mission is the north star for your company's journey.

It's how every decision is made. Without one, it's impossible to set impactful goals. It creates a lack of clarity leading to confusion and disagreement among staff, reducing productivity and efficiency.

Question 2: Is Every Decision Run Through You?

Being a leader doesn't mean micromanaging every tiny detail, but the details matter.

Learn to delegate and trust your team's ability to manage their responsibilities.

Question 3: Are You Hiring People Better Than You?

Your business shouldn't be a one-person show—unless solopreneurship is your thing (boring!).

Recruiting a skilled team who can navigate the company through wind storms is crucial. Surround yourself with experts who challenge you.

Question 4: Do You Have a Set of Company Standards?

The lack of standards is a massive business bottleneck.

Without them, it is like trying to fix a Boeing aircraft with duct tape and superglue. Not the kind of flight anyone wants to be on.

The Solution: Empower. Delegate. Trust but Verify.

The solution to you being the business bottleneck (ego check again) is simple.

Empower your team.

Delegate core functional responsibilities to capable team members.

Trust the standards are met, but regularly audit them and recalibrate when necessary.

I know it's not easy to see our own faults. I've been there.

But remember, even a tiny course correction can save you from a major disaster, even if it's just a massive case of burnout.

So, ask yourself these questions. And if the answer makes you squirm, it's time for a change.

Remember, the success of your flight depends on you, the pilot. Don't be the reason your company doesn't reach its destination.

Be brutally honest with yourself, and keep aiming for the sky; maybe one day, you'll end up next to a star.