Burnout Is Real, and It’s Time to Handle It Like a Bestie
Hey Besties,
Let’s have an honest chat—burnout in the nonprofit world is no joke. The new State of Nonprofits report from our friends at the North Texas Nonprofit Institute lays it all out: 95% of nonprofit leaders are worried about burnout, and half of them say they’re more burnt out this year than last.
Yikes, right?
Here’s the no-BS truth: when burnout creeps in, it’s not just a personal struggle—it becomes an organizational problem.
And if your team is running on fumes, your mission slips through the cracks too.
So let’s give NTNI a round of applause for keeping it real. Their report gives us exactly what we need—a wake-up call and permission to take burnout seriously.
How Do We Tackle Burnout Without Busting the Budget?
Hiring extra staff or throwing big raises around might not be in the cards. But that doesn’t mean we’re powerless.
Here are a few ways to make things better without breaking the bank:
- Cut the Guilt—Set Boundaries: Emails at midnight? No thanks. Work will still be there tomorrow.
- Give People Flexibility: Let folks adjust their schedules or work remotely. People thrive when they have room to breathe.
- Do Real Check-ins: Skip the surface-level “How’s it going?” and ask, How are you really doing? That five-minute convo can work wonders.
- Adjust Goals (Without Shame): Some fundraising targets made sense in January but feel impossible now—and that’s okay. Have an honest convo with funders. Many are open to more flexibility
The good news?
NTNI’s report says funders are loosening restrictions and offering more general operating support. That’s our green light to put people first and use those dollars to build something sustainable.
Your team’s well-being isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s mission-critical.
You Can’t Save the World on an Empty Tank
Let’s face it, Bestie: burnout isn’t a personal failure—it’s a sign the system needs a reset. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and neither can your team.
If you’ve been running on fumes, this is your permission to pause, reset, and make room for what matters.
And I know—it’s tough. We’re wired to keep going no matter what. But this isn’t about quitting. It’s about showing up smarter. One boundary, one conversation, one deep breath at a time.
Ready to Take Your Burnout Plan from Good to Bestie-Level?
We’ve got something for you!
If you’re ready to put systems in place to fight burnout and hit your goals, grab the 10 Steps Mini Guide for just $27. It’s packed with actionable tips, templates, and strategies to keep your nonprofit running smoothly without running you into the ground.
👉 Grab the 10 Steps Mini Guide now!
Together, we’ve got this. No burnout, no quitting—just sustainable success. You’re not alone, Bestie. I’m right here with you, every step of the way.
With love and zero BS,
Ellena
Your Fundraising BFF 💪
I'm Your Fundraising BFF
I’ve spent over 15 years raising money and growing nonprofits through smart, data-driven strategies paired with creativity. I’m really, really good at raising money — for you.
Whether you're focused on improving donor retention or growing your base of support, I’ve done it all, and I’m here to help you succeed. Just like a work bestie.
My sweet spot is at the intersection of data and creativity. I’ve consistently boosted donor retention and transformed strategies by blending data analysis with the art of storytelling.
The result? Engaged donors and sustainable growth. I’ve helped many nonprofits thrive—and I’m ready to do the same for you.
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