We live in an era of “big:” big data, big ideas, big impact. Yet changing the world is as it has always been—one small voice at a time. Mother Teresa said, “To keep a lamp burning, we have to keep putting oil in.”
Perhaps more than just about anyone, she understood the power of a voice speaking a message consistently and sincerely over time. Trust and impact are built that way.
We set out to change the world with our charitable vision. Day by day, we deliver value based upon that goal. We often get discouraged, even wondering if our efforts really amount to much.
Building fundraising programs to support that vision also takes time. Sure there’s the one shot wonder. That will never sustain you, however. Sustainable and scalable always takes time. Now’s there the unique fundraising idea. Think strategic fundraising not just immediate fundraising. Principle 5 of The Eight Principles™ is Renew & Refresh™. Renewing and refreshing your donor base requires consistent effort, over time.
The key is to understand the concept of “gradually”. Gradually, we make change. Gradually we have impact. Day by day, it builds. Day by day another life is changed.
Because our success is incremental doesn’t make it any less important—or life changing.
Funny thing about “overnight successes” they’re almost always about ten years in the making. Suddenly, the incremental effort becomes the “big story.”
Don’t be fooled by the immediacy of “big.” Always look for the backstory. You’ll see a lot of blood, sweat and tears, as they say—and not a little time.
Go out and change the world. It’s waiting. Take The Eight Principles™ with you.
