We are all tempted by the so-called “shiny object syndrome”. In the social impact sector, this typically looks like a new donor with new money to fund a new project. Or it could look like implementing the latest technology tool with the hope that it will save your organization thousands of dollars and improved efficiency 10x. In today’s fast-changing environment, we are tempted more than ever by shiny objects all around us.
So how can we as social impact leaders navigate through change, without losing focus on our mission?
I recently sat down with Pierre Le Manh to discuss this very issue. An effective social impact leader stays focused on their mission during change by using their mission as a daily decision filter, by communicating it constantly, and by building simple practices that reconnect their team to the organization’s “why.”
Here are some practical steps you can take in your organization.
Start with ruthless clarity
- Revisit and sharpen your mission and core outcomes at least every year or when a major change in your organization occurs.
- Then translate your mission into 3 to 5 concrete priorities along with a small set of success indicators so people know what “winning” looks like and what it looks like to be “on mission”.
Use your mission as a filter
- Ask this for every new idea, potential grant, or partnership: “Does this move us closer to our mission or away from our mission?” If it moves you away from your mission, just say no.
- When you do decide to add a new program or a new strategy, be clear about how it reinforces your core purpose and resonates with your values.
Communicate on mission
- Whenever you make a significant change or new initiative, communicate how it furthers your mission and why it is the right direction based on your mission.
- Communicate through regular, consistent updates one impact story or one “win” story that demonstrates how your mission is being accomplished with this new direction or initiative.
Avoid the shiny object syndrome
- Before adopting any new technology, a big grant opportunity, or new initiative, implement the necessity of having a simple one-page proposal that clearly shows how this will create better alignment to your mission, expansion of your existing programs and reinforces your values.
- Appy a “less is more” mentality with your strategic initiatives by perfecting the basics and focusing your energy for higher impact.
How are you making this happen?
How are you staying true to your mission, in the midst of massive change? I would love to hear from you. Email me at rob@robharter.com. If you want to listen in to my conversation with Pierre or listen to other amazing guests, follow this link.