4 Ways to Make the Most of the Fundraising Dog Days of December

Sometime this month, you're going to experience the bliss that all fundraisers long for — those few days when you can't do any more to impact 2014 income except hope and pray, and no one else is around with whom to brainstorm 2015 plans. We don't get those "dog days" very often, so it's easy to squander them away. But here are a few ideas to make the most of them, if you're so inclined.

1. First, review your goals.
They may not have seen the light of day since your last review, or you may try to focus on them on a regular basis. Whichever it is (or somewhere in between), pull them out and look them over. Where have you excelled? Yea! Give yourself a round of applause.
What about those that are worthy but haven't yet been accomplished? Decide which one or two to focus on in the coming weeks, and sketch out a plan for making them move from goals to reality.

Goals aren't the "be all and end all" of a fundraiser's life. But if you have thoughtful goals, they can help you grow in your job, and help your organization grow, as well. If the list you're reviewing seems out of touch with reality, consider now how you can change that at your next review. Or, if you don't get a regular review, revise your goals for your own benefit and recommit to them.

2. Say thank you to those who helped you accomplish so much in 2014
The database person who regularly provides the reports and mailing lists, even when you're late with the request. The accounting team member who helps you identify what needs funding and avoid over-funding another project. The people who stayed late or skipped lunch to help stuff an emergency mailing.