I talk to many major gift officers, development professionals, and non-profit executives every week. Lately, I’ve been hearing a common theme: people are burned out, stressed out, and even contemplating leaving the field altogether.
For some, moving on might be the right choice. But for others, it’s painful to watch because I know how gifted they are—and what a loss it would be for the non-profit sector to lose their skills and heart.
That’s why I think it’s so important to step back every once in a while and reflect. Ask yourself: How are you feeling about your current role? Does it fit your skills? Is it helping you move toward your future goals? Do you still find joy in it?
This season—right now, before giving season really ramps up and overwhelms—is the perfect time for that kind of reflection. It’s a chance to catch your breath and prepare yourself for what’s ahead.
I grew up Catholic, and one thing I appreciated about that tradition was the rhythm of different seasons. Before the big celebrations like Easter or Christmas came a quieter time of reflection with Lent or Advent.
That’s how I think of this moment in the fundraising calendar. A little “Advent” before the storm of year-end giving. So take some time now to pause, reflect, and care for yourself.
Here are seven practices that can help you avoid burnout and reduce stress as a major gift officer or development professional.
Don’t take it all too seriously
Your work has serious consequences, and that can feel heavy. But if you’re constantly “hunched over” under the weight of it, you won’t last long. Worse, you’ll be miserable to those around you. Yes, the issues you’re working on are serious—but you can still carry a lightness that emanates joy.
Take weekends off
You need time to decompress. Working weekends should be rare. I know it’s tempting to use Saturday and Sunday to catch up, but I’ve learned that when I take time away from “the work,” my brain functions better, and I’m far less irritable.
Take walks—or even a nap
Not every organization has “sleep pods” yet, but if you can swing a quick nap or a brisk walk, it works wonders. Around 2:30 P.M., I often need one myself. A 15-minute nap or a 20-minute walk clears my head and boosts my energy. I’ve never met anyone who said a walk made them less productive.
Exercise regularly
This one’s tough for me, but when I commit to it, it changes everything. Lately, I’ve been swimming laps in the mornings, and it’s an amazing way to relieve stress and spark ideas (some of my best blogs have come while swimming). Whatever form of exercise you enjoy, make it a priority.
Get enough sleep
We all need different amounts, but know your number. For me, it’s seven hours. If I don’t get that, I feel off. Exercise also helps me sleep better. Burnout is often rooted in exhaustion, so guard your rest.
Practice gratitude
Start and end each day by asking: What am I grateful for today? This simple practice makes my body relax and shifts my outlook. If you have a spouse or partner, it can be a wonderful bedtime ritual to share together.
Thank your donors
You might not connect this with burnout, but it’s powerful. When you cultivate a spirit of gratitude, you remember why you do this work: to bring donors together with needs they can help meet. One of the best ways to relieve stress? Start your day by writing three or four thank-you notes to donors.
Some of these practices are harder than others, but I know from experience that when I commit to them, I feel calmer, more focused, less agitated, and more at peace.
So in this quiet moment before the busyness of giving season sets in, take some time to check in with yourself. How are you doing?