MORE of the F Word

In our journey to inspire generosity, the “F word” takes on a whole new meaning. No, I’m not referring to that four-letter expletive that might slip out in moments of frustration. Instead, I’m talking about a word that’s actually evasive for us: FINISHED! In fundraising, “finished” is a concept that’s as elusive as a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. Why? As advancement professionals our work is never truly done. There’s always more needing our attention —

More connections to make,

More gratitude to express,

More conversations to have,

More opportunities to present,

More listening to do,

MORE MONEY TO RAISE! MORE GOOD TO DO!

Yet, amidst the perpetual pursuit of MORE, there are ways to find satisfaction in the feeling of completion – that feeling that comes from DONE!

Here are 3 TIPS to help you get more of the “F Word – FINISHED” into your life!

 

1. Pepper your life with things you CAN TRULY FINISH!  (Bite-sized and occasionally bigger.)This may sound crazy – but I love to do the wash. Folded and back in the closet – FINISHED! I love to rake a section of the lawn. FINISHED. Take 4 files and purge – FINISHED! Notice how this FEELS. Ooooohh..enjoy the feeling. It’s why we add something to the list we forgot to write down just so we can check it off! FINISHED!

2. Take time NOW to create more time LATER. Let me give you an example – a

Closet Clean!  This past weekend my dear friend, Sue, spent 6 hours with me cleaning out my closet! She’s a pro! It was not all fun to be sure, and as she proclaims, “We are still friends!” AND, it will help me find what I need faster EVERY day, pack easier and faster for my speaking trips, and enjoy the calm of the less cluttered space.

The same is true for your desk and office. Taking a Saturday morning or evening is well worth it. Spend some time to gain a bunch of time! Generally it gets messier before it gets better!

3. Strategize Relationship Building: While relationships are enduring, it’s essential to establish structured plans to foster key connections. For me, this means crafting Relationship Action Plans (RAPs) for your top major donors, ensuring regular and ARTFUL engagement. It’s not about getting the donor to the ASK, rather it’s about YOU having the structure to do YOUR part to help your major givers find the gift that is most meaningful for them. Setting aside time to create RAPS takes time NOW, but saves you time scrambling later and creates a MUCH better donor journey.

While not all donors will have complex plans, allocating dedicated time each week for nurturing relationships with potential major donors will give you space and purpose to bring others along.

Above all of this – reflect on your overarching life purpose — to be a good parent, to live your faith, to help others be their best selves…. Clarify your vision, and take some action every day that lives it. That’s a good day!

 

So, the next time you Find yourself caught up in the wrong F words – perhaps the Frenzy of Fundraising, and MORE, MORE, MORE, Focus on moments of “FINISHED!” Celebrate your successes, acknowledge your efforts, and remind yourself that while the work may never be truly finished, it DOES change lives, lift up communities, champion causes and bring JOY!

 

Ok…FINISHED!