Seven Reasons for Fundraisers to be Optimistic in 2009

Association of Fundraising Professionals, Feb. 2, 2009 — AFP member, experienced fundraiser, speaker and author, Gail Perry, CFRE, shares with eWire readers her thoughts on how to keep going productively in these bad economic times. She believes that without a positive outlook we cannot go forward to make the world a better place. Below is her "positive thinking" list for '09.
"We can't go forward if we are stuck in gloom and doom,” Perry says. “I’m keeping my sights on the horizon where the sun is coming up and donors are generously giving to their favorite causes. This is where I’m focusing!”
1. It may be tough right now, but even in the darkest times, there shines a light of opportunity. If you are familiar with the Chinese character for "chaos," you might know that within it rests the word "opportunity." Whenever there is confusion and doubt, there are always opportunities. It's up to you. You can choose to roll over like a dead bug or you can bravely look for the opportunities. Clearly things are changing. It is our challenge to be open to change, looking constantly for new strategies and ideas within a chaotic environment.
2. We have new national leadership in the U.S. with a set of fresh ideas for the future. Recent polls found that most of the American public is confident in our new president and willing to be patient with him. People and nations worldwide have shared their hope that the new U.S. leadership will have a positive impact on world peace. I predict that at some point this year, attitudes and consumer confidence will start to turn around. It may get worse, but it WILL eventually get better. People’s hearts and minds will begin to turn to a new future, focusing on new possibilities.
