Did You Fall into Fundraising? It's Time to take Control of Your Career and Work-Life Balance
Are you an experienced fundraiser passionate about making a difference in the charity sector? If so, you're in good company. Like many of us, myself included, you might have found your way into fundraising almost by chance, enticed by the noble cause and the potential to create a positive impact, let’s be honest it wasn’t the salary! We have the autonomy to shape our careers and find the work-life balance we truly deserve.
The Serendipitous Path to Fundraising: You, Me, and Every Other Fundraiser Out There
If you're anything like me, you'll have a story to tell about how you ended up in fundraising. Maybe you began as a volunteer, driven by a deep desire to contribute to a cause that resonated with your heart. Or perhaps you joined a charity with a different role in mind, only to be captivated by the captivating world of fundraising and its potential to generate crucial resources for the organisation - that can happen, right?
The charity sector is full of passionate people who find themselves in fundraising roles, often led by their commitment to making the world a better place. However, there comes a point when we must pause, take a step back, and regain control of our careers and, most crucially, our work-life balance.
Owning Your Career and Choices: No More Going with the Flow
While it's commendable to be driven by a sense of purpose, it's equally vital to take ownership of our career paths. After working for organisations such as the British Red Cross, Wales Millennium Centre, and Frank Water, I made the decision in 2020 to channel my knowledge into freelance consultancy, training facilitation, and coaching. This choice allowed me to share my expertise, support others, and maintain a healthier work-life balance, which now complements family life.
We need to stop merely drifting along with the tide and start taking charge of our professional lives. This isn't a disservice to the causes we champion; instead, it's a recognition that we can make a more significant impact when we steer the ship of our careers and safeguard our well-being.
Empowering Yourself and Your Organisation: Instilling Sustainable Strategies
Through my coaching and consultancy work, I've had the privilege of helping charity professionals overcome burnout and make their purposeful work possible and intentional! I thrive when empowering individuals and their organisations by instilling sustainable strategies that promote personal well-being, professional growth, and overall organisational efficiency.
Here's how you, as a dedicated fundraiser, can seize control:
Set Boundaries: It's vital to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. This entails carving out time for self-care, indulging in hobbies, and quality time with loved ones.
Invest in Professional Growth: Continuously seek opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge. This not only benefits you but also adds substantial value to your organisation.
Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate milestones, both big and small. Recognize your successes and the impact your fundraising efforts bring to the organisation and the causes you support. Celebrating achievements boosts morale and motivates you to continue your exceptional work.
Leverage Your Network: Develop connections with other professionals in the charity sector. Sharing experiences and insights can be incredibly enriching and might lead to invaluable collaborations.
Lead with Passion and Authenticity: As a dedicated fundraiser, your genuine passion for the cause you represent is one of your greatest assets. Authenticity creates meaningful connections with donors and inspires trust, leading to increased support.
Explore New Avenues: If you sense that your current role isn't aligned with your long-term aspirations, consider exploring new paths within the sector. Your expertise is precious, and there are numerous ways to make a difference.
Strategize and Reflect: Regularly set aside time to think about your career. Reflect on your achievements, challenges, and long-term goals. Ensure your path aligns with your passion and purpose, allowing you to make informed decisions and adapt as needed.
It's Time to Seize Control
As seasoned fundraisers, we have the ability to make a profound impact on the causes we care about and we can do this while prioritising our well-being. Let's take ownership of our careers, make deliberate choices, and maintain the work-life balance we truly deserve. It's not just about us; it's about ensuring that we can continue making a difference for years to come.
If you're ready to seize control of your career and work-life balance, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can navigate the challenges you’re facing, and create a strategy for your career that feels aligned to you.
Want to know more about how coaching can help you overcome burnout and make your purposeful work possible?
