Tension between Survival Mode and Strategic Thinking

Nonprofits early in their development often struggle with “keeping the doors open” and finding time to develop tactics and strategy that will support ideas that will propel the organization forward. Recently, I worked with an organization that was entering its fourth year in existence, and this tension was palpable. The earnestness amongst the board members around the table was a force to be reckoned with, but they were devoting nearly 100% of their energy finding funds to sustain operations. Through no fault of their own, they felt their passion for the mission would be enough. After sitting down with the Board and asking some pointed questions, the Board began to understand that their positive energy was not enough.

While finding funds to continue operating is essential, it is also essential that Boards find ways to think strategically. What are short and long term ideas that will begin the transition from survival mode to long term sustainability? This question must be addressed. The answer is quite simple, but the execution can be tricky. Boards need time and discipline to implement strategic thinking. All volunteer Boards get stuck in the day-to-day operations, yet they need to carve out some time, albeit a small chunk, to devote to big picture ideas that focus on the long term. Organizing Board meetings in a small but significant way can begin this process. Set aside fifteen minutes at the beginning of the meeting to begin the conversation that addresses a long term need. Be disciplined about scheduling such a conversation at every meeting. Put this item first on the agenda when everyone is the freshest. One way to guarantee this happens is to have a brainstorming session that generates those ideas. Prioritize these ideas, and then assign them to a slot at the beginning of each Board meeting. While this may seem like a small step, it will begin the process of seeking sustainability in a meaningful way. It also will become infectious. Boards want to be creative, they want to be strategic, but their fear with “keeping the doors open” gets in the way. Once this mindset begins to shift,  the Board will realize that this time is productive and it will lead to keeping the doors open for years to come.