In my early years of entrepreneurship, I believed that the more I tried to manage all aspects of my business, the more successful it would be. I thought micromanaging was my way of protecting myself from failure. But I soon realized that while I was busy trying to control everything, I was missing one thing that mattered most: FREEDOM – lack of work restrictions and the ability to think tactically and creatively and have personal time.

The epiphany that hit me was that true freedom is not about freeing yourself; rather, it's about exercising leadership sensibly and enabling people to do things more effectively than you can. Below are five strategies you can use in your business to achieve true freedom without giving up control.

Related: My business became my prison. That's how I was released.

1. Build a team of experts

A great way to get more freedom is to have people who know much more than you in their areas of specialization. But of course, a large number of leaders do not, because they are either too afraid of giving up control or of being under the spotlight from their subordinates. However, hiring people who are smarter than you in your chosen fields will allow you to focus on your strengths while making sure the company is okay.

If your marketing manager knows more about advertising than you do, let him take charge of the process. If your finance director can quickly calculate complex numbers, then you should let him/her make decisions. This approach is beneficial because you can be sure that every segment of the business is in good hands.

An action overview: First, look at what you don't know, or maybe try to avoid doing it or spending too much time doing it. That means employment of employees who are more knowledgeable than you in these areas. This also saves you time and at the same time helps increase the overall quality of your business.

2. Create a “No-Check-In Zone”

Perhaps one of the most unproductive activities any business owner can engage in is approving every decision that is made. End-of-day check-ins for approvals slow down work and limit you from staying accountable to day-to-day work. The solution? Define a “No Control Zone” for the normal flow of business decisions. This means setting standards with your team and gaining their trust so they can make small decisions on their own. But it's more about giving them their freedom make decisions and do things quickly and without doubt within the context of the guidelines you set.

An action overview: It is important to give your team clear specifications of the decision-making criteria expected of them. For example, inform them about the decisions you allow them to make on their own and those that need your input. This small change allows your team to work without your direct intervention while you focus on strategic issues.

Related: The 4 keys to having more freedom in your business

3. Implement backup systems for each task

No matter how much we want to believe that we are the cornerstone of the operation, things need to run smoothly even when we are not around. Maintaining backup systems means that no work stops because someone is unavailable, including yourself. It is always advisable to have a backup person for each task or at least a backup plan in case something goes wrong. This way, no team member is idle and if you are unavailable due to time constraints such as meetings or you are on a business trip, the work continues.

An action overview: Start by identifying the tasks that are critical to your business, and then find one contingency plan for each of them. This can be a person, a software solution, or a set of processes that can keep things moving even in the face of adversity.

4. Train your emergency team

Emergencies are inevitable; however, you can avoid the stress of unexpected phone calls or urgent matters. Supporting your team for it deal with emergencies without your help allows them to resolve issues without having to ask for permission. Crisis management training and problem-solving skills help your team think quickly and reduce the disruptions you encounter. Good emergency training focuses on more than just giving instructions; it emphasizes scenario planning and leading your team through potential challenges. Equipped individuals will reduce your involvement in crisis situations.

An action overview: Create contingency plans and conduct hands-on training sessions for your team. This will prepare them to face crises head on, while you can enjoy your free time without anxiety.

5. Prioritize future-focused work

The shift from reactive to proactive leadership leads to freedom. Often, we get caught up in daily distractions like emails and frequent meetings that prevent us from prioritizing long-term progress. Such activities drive the organization forward by focusing on idea generation and sustainable expansion. Freeing yourself from pressing matters allows you to devote your attention to essential goals. Get rid of urgent task and invest in tasks that will shape the future of your company.

An action overview: Set aside specific time each week for future-oriented tasks. New product development may also be on the agenda as you review your strategy or seek partnerships. Guard this time carefully and be firm against letting immediate tasks dominate.

Related: How to replace yourself in your business without losing control

True freedom in business involves wisely assigning tasks and supporting your team by focusing on core goals. Developing a team of specialists and creating a No-Check-In Zone allows you to gain freedom in growing your business and reduce stress in your personal life. Embrace the transition from taking on every task for cultivating strategic leadership. Securing freedom requires active participation in these measures today. Your business will not only survive, but thrive, allowing you to spend more time on important issues.