In this solo episode of Nonprofits Are Messy, I take the mic to share my thoughts on what promises to be a turbulent year for nonprofit leaders. As we face uncertainty together, I outline five strategies designed to help you lead with confidence, adaptability, and purpose.
These aren’t just tips—they’re the same strategies I’ve relied on throughout my own career, and I’m betting they’ll serve you well too. I believe in the nonprofit sector. And I believe in you as a leader.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
EDUCATE YOURSELF
As leaders, we can’t afford to stay in our organizational bubble. I encourage you to dive into what I call the “third bubble”—the nonprofit sector as a whole. Learn the trends, follow key legislation like H.R. 9495, and stay informed.
SHIFT THE MINDSET OF YOUR BOARD
Most boards live at the fiduciary level, managing risk and avoiding mistakes. But that’s not where innovation happens. I challenge you to push your board to embrace adaptability, pilot new ideas, and lean into the innovative spirit that inspired your organization’s founding.
GET COMFORTABLE LIVING IN A NON-BINARY WORLD
Ambiguity and multiple truths are everywhere, especially in today’s polarized world. This year, it’s critical to embrace the gray areas and have meaningful conversations, even with those who don’t share your views.
EMBRACE COMMUNITY
Leadership can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Find your community—whether it’s your team, your sector, or a broader nonprofit network. Lean on them, learn from them, and let them fuel your journey.
INVEST IN YOURSELF
I can’t stress this enough: taking care of yourself is a leadership imperative. Find balance, delegate what doesn’t belong on your plate, and make professional development a priority.
RESOURCES:
- Nonprofit Leadership Lab
- Joan Garry’s Guide to Nonprofit Leadership – 2nd Edition by Joan Garry
- FREE WORKSHOP: Let’s Build the Nonprofit Board of Your Dreams!
- FREE WORKSHOP: The 5 Practices of Outstanding Nonprofit Leaders
- Music by Jukebox the Ghost
- Voiceover Work by Cindy Cap Solutions
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”