Are You Doing This Right?

I read a lot of blogs, listen to a lot of podcasts, and watch a lot of TED talks. I take copious notes and incorporate these sage words and actions into my development, marketing, and corporate culture work with clients. I feel enriched for the time spent.

And sometimes, I feel like a failure for not incorporating the latest top 5, 10, or 25 things that every small shop fundraiser/manager/leader should know, according to the sages mentioned above. So, let's pivot and here's my list of:

5 Things That You Are Doing RIGHT

You are passionate. Caring intensely about the organization is half the battle. By caring genuinely, you can talk with people about why this means so much to you and those you serve. Beautiful stories told by passionate people is at the core of philanthropy.

You work hard. When you are passionate about what you do, you work hard at it. Don't let anyone convince you that you work too hard. If you love what you do, then you should carry on until it no longer fulfills you. You and your organization will grow in many ways for your hard work.

You have vision. You can see where the organization could go. Forget the reasons that it might not happen and enjoy the vision. You already spend time each day thinking about this vision, so embrace it as a positive! Cut the sound on your phone, close your laptop, and meditate on what your organization could be. In time, pieces of the vision will become a reality by setting that intention.

You are a leader. You wouldn't have the responsibility that you do if you were not a leader. You might have a constant feedback loop in your mind that tells you different, but it's time to sever that loop once and for all. With your passion and vision, you see where this organization should go. Lead your board with your hard work and organizational skills. Let go of the anger toward others that are not leading you and the organization well. You are a leader.

You invite others to join you. You know that you can't do it all by yourself. But, you have high standards. By allowing volunteers, staff, board members, and clients to join you they share your passion, see your vision, and work hard with you to forward the mission of your organization. Working with others to accomplish something essential anchors you in a community. Forming a community around the excellent work that you do is right.

Do yourself a favor and let this be the last blog you read today because you should be proud of the great work that you do.

The author, Jill Goodman, is a consultant working with independent school leaders to advance their school’s mission, enhance their processes, and bolster their skills.