There’s a quote going around that says, “I’m tired of living in ‘unprecedented times.’ When do we get to go back to precedented times?” It’s funny, it’s sad, it’s true. Especially for nonprofits.
Today’s nonprofit leaders face a challenging landscape marked by several converging factors. Many organizations which receive funding from the US government are experiencing reduced or stalled financial support. Simultaneously, operating expenses are on the rise, squeezing already tight budgets. And guess if finding and retaining talent is an issue? It is. As usual. All of these stressors, plus the pressures of new and changing regulations, are keeping a lot of nonprofit leaders awake at night.
Fortunately, nonprofits know better than almost any other industry about doing more with less. And if you’re a nonprofit leader, you’ve no doubt been in perilous positions before. And you know that tough times don’t last, but tough people (and organizations) do.
But what happens when you don’t feel as resilient as usual? What happens when it’s you who needs support?
It’s lonely at the top, so let us help you with our best advice for battling leadership stress.
Build hearty mental health habits
Vulnerability is a good thing, but if you’re feeling a little too raw, it might be time to work on your mindset and resilience. First, acknowledge your feelings. You have a right to feel them. Give yourself some validation, and then get to work. Prioritize self care. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so make sure you’re taking the time for you–even if it feels indulgent. Try yoga, drink more water, and make getting enough sleep a non-negotiable. Consider mindfulness activities, executive coaching, and counseling, too.
Who you’re going to call
The best leaders don’t try to do it all alone. They know who to call.
One of the biggest favors you can do for yourself is grow your network. Being connected is a nonprofit leader’s secret weapon. And when things get stressful and lonely, your network is going to be your saving grace. Join a peer group of other CEOs, ask a mentor for advice, and find out if there are industry organizations you can learn from and follow.
Keep in mind, also, that there are professionals you can call. You don’t need to be an expert in all things. That’s what lawyers, architects, event planners, and HR people, to name a few, are for.
Trust your team
If you have a good relationship with them, share your challenges with your organization’s board. And remember that you likely have a good and capable team working for you. Delegate and empower them to take on some of your stressors. They can be a great resource for spiritual support as well as getting items crossed off of your to-do list. Another tip? Trust your team to work remotely. You probably know how much easier it is to get things done when your office isn’t constantly occupied by another member of your staff. Give yourself the gift of a quiet morning or afternoon or two, and give your staff the gift of staying home, by making occasional remote work part of your culture.
Conclusion
You’re not alone, even if you feel that way sometimes. Stay in faith, hold close to your mission, and remember that stress doesn’t have to last forever. With some smart tactics and fresh perspectives, you can make it through and be stronger because of it.
Feeling stuck?
Check out this quickstart guide to overcoming challenges.
