Are you experiencing “Development Fatigue”? Many donors go through “Donor Fatigue” when they have been asked too often for a donation but that’s not what I’m talking about. Do you ever feel like you have been asking too much and just don’t have any more “development” left in you?
I think this happens to the very best of us. We have to wear a lot of hats in the development world from motivator to advocate, solicitor to coach, and many more. Often times we have more to do than we can get done in any given day. I know sometimes I am overwhelmed just at the number of things I have to do even before I have started them. When it gets to this point it is important that this kind of workload and stress does not get conveyed to the donor. The donor should always feel like you have time for them. It is also important that we learn to respond to this for our own personal and professional health.
Here are a few things that I do to stay compassionate, keep a steady mind, and keep from burn out.
- Make sure that as often as you can you take lunches for yourself. Make time in your calendar a couple times a week to eat with your co-workers, friends, or on your own. It is important to take some time away from your desk every day. This also helps you connect with other staff in the organization outside of asking them to help you in your fundraising.
- Keep perspective on what you are doing. Remember that you are part of a team, none of us can do this alone. Don’t forget what cause or issue you are working for. If you do not feel connected to what you are raising money to do then call a client or alumni and ask to hear their story.
- Do your best to keep work at work. Try not to think about what you are doing tomorrow after you have left work. Try not to bring things home or make calls from home. Sometimes you can’t do this but if you can this helps keep you centered.
I have been doing these things for a number of years and have found that they make a huge difference. There are always times when you will be too busy but I have found that when I’m able to make time for these things it actually makes me more productive. Leave your little trick of the trade or story as a comment below.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Jason,
I’ve been reading your blog for awhile now and have thoroughly enjoyed your posts. This particular subject hits very close to home. In addition to the points you raised, I’d like to suggest adding one more.
Communicate with your team/boss.
In these unstable and uncertain times, the pressure for Development Directors and other fundraisers to produce “results” is huge. Communicating the reality of the situation (donors may take longer to give after an ask, may not give as much as usual, or may not give at all) goes a long way.
I have found that doing this brings a greater awareness to the funding climate the rest of the team usually is not aware of and it opens up dialogue for greater collaboration.
Jason,
Your post addresses an issue that is often overlooked. I too have ‘hit the wall’ in terms of development fatigue and have practiced your recommendations myself. I’d like to emphasize the importance of number one. Taking a daily break, for lunch or otherwise, away from the office was really key for me. Even if only for 20-30 minutes the breaks allowed me to quickly reflect on the morning, set priorities for the afternoon and decompress at the same time.
I would also concur with Leanne, communicating with the team, your boss and sometimes even a board member helps keep everyone up-to-date on the day-to-day development work experience, engages them in helping to overcome challenges and provides an opportunity to support one another.