Here's how you can manage workload and set boundaries to avoid burnout as a fundraiser.

In a leadership role it is most critical to identify tasks that can be delegated so that I can focus the majority of my time on things that only I can do. Coaching and mentoring staff takes time and focus, as does strategic planning and setting a clear vision for those we lead.

Tema relevante. O esgotamento mental, stress e potencial burnout decorrente do trabalho estratégico de fundraising tem um origem clara: Adrenalina vai lá no alto, ansiedade durante a due diligence, mergulho em planilhas e predição financeira, expectativa diária de green light do avanço. A frustrações são muito comuns durante todo o processo, principalmente porque não temos um controle de expectativa. Saber equalizar as expectativas é condição importantíssima para sobreviver às intempéries de um fundraising.

Not every potential funding opportunity is a good one. Learn how to identify quickly which are worth your time and energy so you have choices. A lot of people will dangle money in front of you and try to make you dance but the best opportunities lead to connection and contribution, not burnout.

Ongoing reflection and review are essential for prioritizing tasks and workload, especially when part of a team. Weekly self-reviews of projects, deadlines, and goals are critical to allow for adjustments in strategy, keeping tasks relevant and focused. Picking a day of the week for this review helps to categorize importance and delegation needs.

I recently wrote an article on Fundraising Metrics. I was shocked with the feedback. Most people only track outcomes (the goals). You can measure your goals, but you cannot manage them. You need to figure out the things that you can control, that you can manage, and focus ruthlessly on that. The rest is noise that you should be attuned to, but not focused on. So yes--prioritize tasks, but prioritize the right ones.

I have found that it's important to find a balance between being open to new fundraising ideas and sticking to the strategies that you know work well for your unique mission. Fundraisers are encouraged to be constantly innovative, to think outside the box, and know about every opportunity. There is a constant drive to not be left out, or left behind. But, we also need to be mindful of our time and energy. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of new ideas, but we can't do everything at once. And not every shiny new thing is relevant to your organisation or your mission. Focus on the high-impact activities that you know will bring in funds, and do them really well.

Fundraising can feel like a full time job, even when you still have your full time job of running your company. Set yourself up for success by being hyper vigilant with time spent every step of the way. Do your diligence and ask question before the meeting to ensure it’s a fit (and that they actually have money to invest in your stage/industry/etc). You’d be surprised how many investors are actually raising themselves, don’t waste time with anyone but those who have real funds to deploy!

To effectively manage your workload and prevent burnout as a fundraiser, consider setting boundaries that protect your peace. For example: 1. Define & Communicate Your Work Hours & Space: Clearly outline your work hours and stick to them. Make it a habit to sign off at the end of your day and avoid handling work tasks during personal time. Inform your team and supervisor about your availability and offline times. Additionally, create zones where work is off-limits (e.g., during meals or family time) to ensure you recharge. 2. Seek Supportive Leadership: Ensure your supervisor respects your work-life balance and offers flexibility. If not, remember it's okay to consider seeking a new workplace that values your well-being.

Maximizing the workflow and dashboard tools in our CRM has really helped me to streamline the most basic tasks. It keeps me on track so that nothing falls through the cracks when being sure our donors are properly cultivated and stewarded.

Self care means physical and mental health, your heart and those who live in it, your solar plexus and guarding and minding it, and your joy level. Think of each on a long timeline, and check in on them. It's okay to focus on one at a time. And it's okay to prioritize them given the situation. My go-to for sudden needs: deep breathing. In through the nose, out through the mouth. Bring that good air right into your belly and exhale all the troublesome air slowly.

Process is your friend in fundraising, whether it be as an entrepreneur, a non-profit, an asset manager, or frankly any kind of fundraising. Also, knowing that the majority of prospects will say no is a huge part of staying mentally in the game. It's about understanding fundraising strategy well enough to prepare for the daunting process of a raise, using process and tracking to manage the pipeline, honing the pitch, and respecting how hard it is to raise money. ALSO, it's too easy to read news articles about other successful fundraisers - please know that it's never easy, and that normally if an article makes a round, fund, gala, etc. seem hugely successful, there's either backstory you don't know, or advantages you may not have had.

Many founders approach fundraising like it's a mysterious process priority, and not a priority. They spend a couple hours a week on it. Their efforts are chaotic, unorganized, and unproductive. This is your biggest most critical project. Your job as startup founder/CEO is to get money in the business - revenue and/or funding. This is highest priority and everything else supports that. If you don't know how to do it, or are stuck in uncertainty, hire an expert to help you set the plan and hold you accountable. With a clear plan, you can follow that plan and get the results you need. Clear 50% of your time to focus on this. And then drive to results within 3 months. Then, if unsuccessful, reassess, adjust and find money elsewhere.