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RECLAIMING CONNECTION: THE ANXIOUS GENERATION

In The Anxious Generation, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt presents a compelling case for how smartphones and social media have transformed childhood—from active, play-based experiences to phone-based, screen-dominated ones. While much of the conversation around the book has focused on youth mental health, Haidt’s research holds deeper relevance for all of us living in an increasingly distracted, hyper-connected world.

As I read, I found myself reflecting not just on childhood, but on adulthood and on how we connect with one another as family members, neighbors, colleagues, and members of a shared community. Haidt’s analysis of how technology rewires our brains and behaviors applies just as powerfully to adults as it does to kids. And in the nonprofit sector, where our work depends on meaningful relationships and shared purpose, those insights feel especially critical.

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Topics: Communications, Donor Stewardship, Board Development, Stewardship, Fundraising, Gratitude, Professional Development, Strategy, Annual Fundraising, Communication, Transparency, Development, Crucial Conversations, Ideas, trust, Presence

DO LESS TO DO BETTER

Posted by Johnathan Teal

What are things you might stop doing that could improve the quality of your day-to-day life? Harvard professor and researcher Arthur Brooks calls this a “to don’t” list: things that you find yourself doing out of habit or obligation even though they lower happiness and productivity.

As you consider your own list, I encourage you to try the following:

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Topics: Communications, Fundraising, Change, Goals, Culture, Strategy, Inspiration, Fund Development, Communication, Relationships, Appreciation, Attitude, Happiness, Ideas, Curiosity, Presence

THE GIFT OF PRESENCE AND CURIOSITY

Posted by Bruce Berglund

As our firm has grown over the years, I’ve had the privilege of spending time with our new consultants, sharing our company history, axioms, and explaining how we “show up” for our clients.

Recently, the leader of a large $200M+ nonprofit asked me what I look for when hiring consultants. What advice would I give when hiring fundraising professionals? How does DBD Group differentiate itself from other firms in the same space?

I think he was surprised when I didn’t talk about years of experience, education or successful previous campaigns. Without pausing to contemplate the question I answered that I look for the gifts of presence and curiosity. These two gifts are a powerful pairing.

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Topics: Fundraising, Donor Communications, Culture Of Philanthrophy, Culture, Inspiration, Development Officer, Relationship Building, Listening, DBD Axiom, Communication, Relationships, Appreciation, Development, Attitude, Curiosity, Presence

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