In case you didn’t notice, it’s hard out there. Increasing number of organisations applying for a smaller pool of donations. New contracts are almost unheard of while compliance is a never ending beast. If we want a thriving charitable sector, we need to be smarter. We can’t keep on setting up new organisations in theContinue reading “We need to end fragmentation”
Category Archives: For Purpose
Who needs a sounding board?
It works well for purposeful leaders. It can be a hard and lonely place when passion and management collide. I can relate; I’ve been there. When you need someone who can listen well, think clearly, and stay grounded, you need is a sounding board.
You’re making a decision? Why?
When trying to find solutions, we’re told to first understand the problem. Many of the decisions we make as leaders, and as people, don’t stem from what we see as a problem. We don’t sit and try and analyse it, we just know we have to make a decision and that’s what we do. SometimesContinue reading “You’re making a decision? Why?”
Just Explore
In an environment where everyone is trying to give you advice, it can be reassuring to sit down with a sounding board and just explore. This what I do…. I’m not a coach or advisor; I’m not an expert on some American management model that is apparently the answer to every issue, and I certainlyContinue reading “Just Explore”
Advisory Boards
We see that advisory boards are becoming more common in the commercial space, especially with SME, but I haven’t noticed this flowing through into the for-purpose sector. Advisory boards are set up to provide guidance and expertise to an organisation on a specific issue or strategy, not the business-as-usual governance, compliance and decision making thatContinue reading “Advisory Boards”
Veni, vidi, adiuvi
After yet again seeing the term veni, vidi, vici (I came, I saw, I conquered) pop up in a movie, I thought I’d shake up ol’ Julius’s phrase. In business we should be looking to conquer issues – and no, not our competitors. Grow the pie instead of trying to scoff it all. From anContinue reading “Veni, vidi, adiuvi”
A reflection
A period of reflection this afternoon reminded me of the time I had my first midlife career tangent. When you receive support, even though you had no prior knowledge that you needed it, it can have a profound impact. Suddenly giving back becomes really important to you. It’s more than just being thankful. It mightContinue reading “A reflection”
Survival is a plan
It’s tough out there at the moment – we all know that. If you’re purpose driven, you see it from both sides. The need has increased while funding and/or sales are difficult. We want to do more, but it feels like we have less. It’s OK, saving the world takes time. It might sound counterintuitiveContinue reading “Survival is a plan”
Look back to see the way ahead
I was idly looking through my notebook from the CELF* course I undertook a few years ago. On the first few pages, two quotes stood out for me: If you have great understanding of your values, you can be totally committed to an organisation – even if that organisation itself may not be clear aboutContinue reading “Look back to see the way ahead”
Integrity
Integrity can sometimes mean doing the right thing, even if it’s not safe to do so. Not every environment is supportive or welcoming of honesty. Sometimes it’s met with anger, resentment, or worse, total silence. When faced with these situations, trust your own values and instincts. You are the sole protector of your integrity, don’tContinue reading “Integrity”
The Optimistic Cynic 