Balancing Mission and Well-Being: A Call for Sustainable Leadership in the Charity Sector
In the charity sector, the conversation around sustainability must incorporate the well-being of the people working in the organisations, the ones making it all possible. As a coach dedicated to supporting charity professionals, I've witnessed the pressing need for a shift that places well-being at the forefront of sustainability.
The Challenge: Navigating a Challenging Environment
Charity professionals, have an unwavering commitment to their causes, often grappling with the complexities of an immensely challenging environment. Superficial 'well-being support,' such as the standard Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), falls short of the holistic and strategic approach needed. True sustainability demands equipping staff with comprehensive training, adequate tools, knowledge, expertise, and realistic budgets to achieve their goals.
Recalibrating Expectations for Sustainable Impact
Sustainable impact requires recalibrating expectations, focusing on quality over quantity. This strategic realignment ensures that every action is purposeful and contributes meaningfully to overarching goals. In a sector where business models are no longer tenable, a delicate balance must be struck to prevent underpaying and overworking staff, which is compromising their well-being.
Leadership Strategy Sessions: Advocating for Sustainable Strategies
Through my Leadership Strategy Sessions, I advocate for sustainable strategies that promote personal well-being, professional growth, and overall organisational efficiency. The core principle is clear – the success of charity organisations hinges on the well-being of those driving the mission. Embracing the idea that 'Sustainability is a Well-Being Issue' is a commitment to nurturing the people within your organisation, ensuring a sustainable impact is not just a possibility but a reality.
The Unacceptable Cost of 'Getting the Job Done'
It's time to address a pressing issue within the sector – the unacceptable trade-off between getting the job done and the well-being of staff. While we all care deeply about our causes and colleagues, the current imbalance is not sustainable. CEOs and leaders face the dilemma of wanting success for their charities but witnessing the toll on their colleagues who work exhaustive hours, burn out, and feel unable to take essential breaks to recharge and look after themselves.
What Needs to Happen:
Prioritise Well-Being: Shift the focus from 'getting the job done at any cost' to prioritising the well-being of your staff. Acknowledge that a sustainable and healthy team is crucial for long-term success.
Open Communication Channels: Encourage open conversations about workload, stress, and burnout. Create a culture where team members feel comfortable expressing their concerns without fear of negative repercussions.
Implement Well-being Policies: Introduce and actively promote policies that support healthy work-life balance. Ensure that flexible working, taking breaks, annual leave, and maintaining a healthy work schedule are not just encouraged but integral to the organisational culture.
Book a Leadership Strategy Session
If you resonate with these challenges and are experiencing difficulties in your leadership team, take proactive steps. Click the link below to book a 30-minute video call, and let's discuss how my Leadership Strategy Sessions could provide valuable insights and support in navigating these crucial issues.
