At this point in the calendar year, most nonprofits have set their budgets and plans for the coming year. Now the reality sets in: how are you going to make it all happen? Here are some fresh ways to think about achieving your goals and, more importantly, bringing your mission into action for those you serve.
1. Reframe the Misses
We get it. No one likes to fail or to be told no. But if you don't take the time to figure out what went wrong or, better yet, how the miss may actually be a win in the long run, you lose the lesson in the loss. Michelle Gorham tells a story of being grateful for gifts that didn't come in as one example of this practice. Kellie Wardman shares a story of digging deep into an organzation's (and a culture's) history to understand the complexity that leads to today's outcomes.
2. Hit the Reset Button
We are big fans of hitting the reset button. It allows for a strategic pause, for better questions to emerge and to change the energy around a topic or a project. We did a whole series of blogs around "reset" this summer. Some of the most read were Jan Brogdon's thoughts on resetting your team structure and Richard Clegg's five ways to reset your board agenda.
3. Make it Personal with Storytelling
Last week's blog also had a reminder to "make it personal" because building relationships is critical in nonprofit leadership. One of the great ways to do this is through storytelling. As you look at your goals for the coming year, how might you inspire your community, your donors, your volunteers or your staff with powerful stories of hope? Lindsay Casavant shares actionable steps to better storytelling. Kennerly Benraty ties a story about canoes from the Lewis & Clarke expedition to modern day leadership and strategy.
If you find yourself looking at big numbers and big goals in the coming year, take a moment to look back, hit the reset button and fuel yourself with powerful stories.
Want help?
DBD Group works with organizations of all sizes and types, helping them to develop volunteers, plan for the future, enhance their financial management and find the fundraising support to bring their missions to life. Learn more at dbd.group, or contact us at info@dbd.group.