One of the most difficult responsibilities of a leader is to know when to intervene when a follower is having difficulty and when to allow someone to struggle.  In such situations I would offer these guidelines.

• Firstly, the mission must come first. If the mission is in danger of failure, the leader must intervene.
• Evaluate, is the follower capable of figuring things out?
• Consider, is there enough time to wait for them to figure things out?
• Ask yourself, what problems will be created or worsened if you do not step in?
• Are there valuable lessons for them to learn through their struggle?