Do you have a plan for January 2nd?

It’s mid-November and most development professionals are in the midst of one of the busiest times of the year when ambitious plans are being executed (hopefully). The pace can be frenetic, between internal meetings, special events and donor visits that require extensive pre-and post-trip planning. As we close in on Dec. 31st, with the expectation that we will top last year’s fundraising results, the pressure to “get ‘er done” can feel intense.

This is precisely the time to take five minutes and make an appointment with yourself, or your team, to meet on January 2nd (okay, I’ll give you until January 6th) to review your plans and see if you need to re-prioritize your activity for the remainder of your fiscal year. Having the discipline to take stock can be the difference between good and great results. The simple act of making this appointment helps to remind us that fundraising is a journey, not a destination, and like any good navigator, you must look at your map often to make sure you are on the right course.