Humans have a habit of doing what is easier. Doing what we like. Doing what we enjoy. Doing what is pleasurable or what we want in the moment.
Not necessarily doing what is in our best interests.
For instance, it’s in our best interests to exercise regularly and eat healthily. That helps us stay strong physically.
It’s in our best interests to mediate, pray, or practice mindfulness consistently. That helps us stay healthy emotionally and psychologically.
It’s in our best interests to pay attention to the needs of others. That helps us thrive socially and interpersonally.
From an advancement standpoint, it’s in our best interests to say, “I don’t know,” (instead of bluffing our way through) if we aren’t sure of the answer to a donor’s question. That helps us build trust with the donor.
It’s in our best interests to ask open-ended, curiosity-rich questions of others. That helps us learn valuable insights and create authentic relationships with constituents.
It’s in our best interests to regularly and enthusiastically invite people to give. That helps us gather more resources for the mission and cause we care deeply about.
So, what are you doing?
And just an importantly, why are you doing it?