This one’s for the not-for-profits: What hat are you wearing today?

So, what hat are you wearing today? Are you the innovator, the problem solver, the communicator, or the cheerleader?

For most leaders, it’s a fact that wearing many hats is a fundamental part of the job. Whether you are leading a small grassroots organization, or a large established non-profit, the demands of the job are vast and varied. A day can range From managing people to fundraising, strategic planning to advocacy, policy creation and implementation, to working with a board of directors; as well as making sure the IT issues get fixed and the parking lot gets cleared!

The role of an executive director requires a broad range of skills and the demands of the job can be challenging to balance.  Wearing many hats can be overwhelming and stressful.  Such multi tasking can leave you feeling exhausted, pulled in too many directions, and constantly connected and available.  How long you can make it before your mind and body tell you, in no uncertain terms, “Enough!”  

There are steps that executive directors can take to manage the workload and prioritize their mental health so both you and the organization can thrive..

Your work is important, and the impact your organization has on the community is vital.  While the diversity involved  in the role may have initially drew you to it and made it both exciting and rewarding, you may now be needing some support to help you reign in the complexity of the struggles, find solutions through others experiences, and be heard by those who relate and have found their sense of hope and excitement again.

A few popular tips for managing the diverse responsibilities of an executive director include prioritizing tasks, delegating responsibilities, being organized and utilizing good time management.  While these are all strategies that can help an ED be more successful at balancing the responsibilities of the job and maintaining work life boundaries – how do we implement them?  What are the tools to use?  Where is the time to learn a new strategy and start using it consistently and effectively?  Renew, Restore, Empower is a community for non-profit female leaders who are seeking just such support.  YOU are making a difference in the lives of others, ask how we can make a difference for you.