Who's Got the Monkey
A delegation framework that classifies tasks as boss-imposed, system-imposed, or self-imposed, metaphorically calling them 'monkeys.' The technique teaches you to identify which tasks belong to whom and find ways to delegate responsibilities back to their rightful owners.
Last updated: 2026-04-04 22:53
Overview
'Who's Got the Monkey?' is a classic management time framework originally published in Harvard Business Review. The metaphor of 'monkeys' represents tasks and responsibilities that need to be handled.
Types of Tasks
- Boss-imposed - Tasks and responsibilities assigned by your manager
- System-imposed - Tasks required by organizational processes and policies
- Self-imposed - Tasks you take on voluntarily or accept from others
Core Principle
Many people unknowingly take on other people's 'monkeys' — tasks that should be handled by someone else. The technique teaches you to:
- Identify which tasks truly belong to you
- Find ways to delegate tasks back to their rightful owners
- Avoid collecting monkeys that aren't yours
- Manage boss-imposed and system-imposed tasks efficiently
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