TAKING ACTION

 

Taking-Action-Option2This month, the Donor By Design Group is challenging you to take action, moving from resolutions to results. Today’s post is the final one of the series, reminding us that the only thing we need to do is the next step. 

Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.
John Wooden

I sometimes find myself overwhelmed with all there is to do. I can reach the point of feeling frozen, paralyzed and unable to do anything. Can you relate?

At some point we all feel this way, but I find that if we can change our perspective, we can move forward.

Identify baby steps and simplify your to-dos, because when you do, the next step is clear. And knowing what to do next helps to thaw out the frozen paralysis of overwhelm.

I see this so often in a fundraising campaign. Staff and volunteer leaders become so overwhelmed by an ambitious goal and huge prospect list that they freeze, making no progress.

I’ve seen many organizations go through all the planning, case development, leadership recruitment and prospecting, only to freeze because implementation is scary or overwhelming. They can’t push the “GO” button.

Consider how to simplify your campaign assignments for yourself and your volunteers. A step-by-step process is helpful, one week at a time. Whether it’s renewals first or just one gift per campaigner the first week, think about how you may be able to simplify the campaign week by week.

It is also helpful to share just a few steps with your volunteers. Celebrate and thank them for accomplishing that task before adding the next task. While it’s good to have the big picture, it’s not always helpful to overwhelm our volunteers with everything right away.

Consider what helps you to simplify your load. Now apply that to your volunteers. They may need your one-step-at-a-time approach to help them move forward as much as you do!

Posted by Peggy Vinson
Peggy Vinson

Written by Peggy Vinson

Since joining DBD in 2005, Peggy has coached executive staff and volunteers on increasing the effectiveness of their fundraising efforts. Peggy’s prescriptive approach focuses on the organization’s strengths and challenges. She meets her clients where they are, helping all to grow their fundraising skills. By developing strategic, measurable plans and skill sets, Peggy helps organizations not only meet their goals this year, but increase their capacity for the future.

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