More isn’t a winning strategy. Two steps to decide what’s enough.
How much is enough?
Most people can’t answer this question. Based on actions, not words, “more than I have” seems accurate. But “more” is not a finite answer. It’s an elusive objective. The lack of consensus on “How much is enough?” is the biggest source of conflict there is. An ill-defined “enough” is the source of war. Environmental degradation is a product of our insatiable consumption. Today’s political rancor is but the most current expression of a timeless squabble over the distribution of wealth.
This economic tug-of-war has led to the assault on nonprofits and foundations. It’s left us to worry about our organizations, the people we serve, and society at large. In this time of unknowns, our organizations could soothe themselves with more certainty in answering “How much is enough?” We owe that to ourselves and to the causes we serve.
If you need convincing, think about the stark difference between those who know the answer and those who don’t. Ever admire the serenity of those who live with less? We have much to learn from monks and minimalists. Their peace comes not from living with less, but from knowing that what they have is enough. Compare that with billionaires who can’t stop working or spending, or with hoarders paralyzed by their possessions.
I’m not suggesting that you need to renounce your worldly goods. I am, however, asserting that there’s a calm that comes from defining how much is enough, one that would be welcome among all that is swirling around us right now. Begin by simplifying your operations with these two steps. This will give you greater objectivity as you set some reasonable near-term goals and intentions.
Step One
An Organizational Edit
Cass Sunstein used the word sludge to describe systems that block progress by applying unnecessary friction. The term is most often associated with consumer frustrations (think canceling your gym membership or renewing your driver’s license), but it’s just as relevant to nonprofits and foundations. Ridding sludge from organizations makes them more accessible, productive and beneficial. It’s time to streamline.
Start with programmatic sludge like cumbersome intake processes, redundant documentation, or unnecessary approval steps. Asking, “Is this policy serving us or just preserving itself?” is a good place to start. The world is probably going to get more difficult for those we aim to help, so let’s do what we can to make things a little easier for them.
Then look inward for administrative sludge. For foundations, this may include right-sizing grant requirements or a deeper embrace of trust-based philanthropy principles. Nonprofits can examine layers of approval, internal reporting procedures and frequency, and standing meetings. Your team has likely never been more stressed, eliminating some processes can only help.
Now look for donor communication sludge. Giving and continuing to give should be a joy, not a job. Too frequent asks and emails can evoke the latter. Give donors one-click ways to set communications preferences and demonstrate what their gift is accomplishing before asking for more. You can also delegate some donor outreach. A voicemail from a staffer can mean far more than a form letter from your development director. Spreading around the joy of saying thanks can boost morale and teamwork.
Step Two
Depth Over Breadth
The nonprofit world is rightly focused on scale: more meals served, more people reached, more dollars raised. But too often, we pursue “more” without defining what “enough” looks like. This applies to our organizations, our teams, and ourselves.
Knowing you’ve delivered a deep, meaningful, and sometimes life-changing experience, even for a smaller group, may be more satisfying and sustainable than striving for volume. Depth over breadth isn’t necessarily settling. It’s often strategic. Set qualitative goals as well as quantitative ones and celebrate every win.
At some point, each of us has to stop sprinting toward “more” and define our own version of success. This is a bit like the Core Narrative Reframe I do for clients. It’s about establishing a quality picture, and that includes not only impact but also intention and peace of mind. By defining what is enough, we gain clarity. We protect our people. We serve with focus.s.
Take care,
Kevin
