Summertime is Coming: 7 Ways to Take Care of Yourself

As a non-profit fundraiser, you have one of the most challenging and rewarding jobs in the world. You’re responsible for building relationships with donors and colleagues, serving your organization’s mission, and meeting Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that can feel like they determine the fate of everything and everyone around you.

That’s a lot of pressure to carry.

And while you’re busy pouring into others—your donors, your colleagues, your organization’s beneficiaries—who’s pouring into you? When do you make time to care for yourself?

With summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and ask yourself this vital question: "Am I taking care of myself so I can continue to give my best to others?"

The truth is your ability to build meaningful relationships and meet your goals doesn’t just depend on how many hours you put in or how hard you work. It also depends on how well you take care of yourself. If you’re running on empty, you can’t be the leader, colleague, or partner your donors need you to be.

Below are seven self-care actions you can take this summer to replenish your soul, relax, and gain perspective for the important work ahead.

1. Schedule “Me Time” Like You Schedule Donor Meetings

You wouldn’t dream of skipping an important meeting with a major donor. So why not treat your own well-being with the same respect? Block time on your calendar for activities that nourish you—whether it’s a morning walk, journaling, or simply sitting with a cup of coffee in silence. Protect this time fiercely. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity.

2. Get Outdoors and Connect with Nature

There’s something deeply restorative about being outside. Whether you take a hike, sit by a lake, or enjoy a picnic in the park, spending time in nature can help you decompress and reconnect with yourself. It’s easy to forget that stepping away from your desk is often the best way to regain clarity and focus.

3. Practice Saying “No”

Fundraisers often feel pulled in a million directions—answering donor emails, attending events, supporting colleagues, and responding to organizational demands. But here’s the truth: you can’t do it all. Learning to say “no” to non-essential tasks is an act of self-care. It allows you to focus on what truly matters and prevents burnout.

4. Take a Vacation (Really Take It!)

When was the last time you truly unplugged? Summer is an ideal time to take a vacation—and I mean a real vacation. No checking email. No thinking about work. Just time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the people and activities that bring you joy. You’ll come back refreshed and ready to tackle your goals with renewed energy.

5. Cultivate Gratitude in Your Day-to-Day Work

It’s easy to get caught up in the stress of fundraising—worrying about hitting KPIs, meeting deadlines, and managing relationships. But taking time each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for can shift your mindset. Celebrate small wins, appreciate your donors’ generosity, and find joy in the impact your work is making in the world.

6. Connect with Your Support System

You’re not in this alone. Make time this summer to connect with friends, family, mentors, or a trusted therapist. Talking through challenges, sharing laughs, or simply being in the presence of people who care about you can be incredibly grounding. Sometimes, the best way to refill your emotional cup is to let others pour into it.

7. Reflect on Why You Are Doing This Work

When the demands of your job feel overwhelming, it helps to revisit your purpose. Why did you get into fundraising in the first place? What drives you to do this work? Reflecting on “why” can bring clarity, motivation, and a deeper sense of fulfillment. It reminds you that you’re part of something bigger than yourself—a mission that matters.

Summertime offers a natural opportunity to slow down, breathe, and take stock of how you’re showing up for yourself. As a fundraiser, you give so much to others. But to be at your best—both for your donors and for your organization—you need to prioritize self-care.

So, as the sunny days roll in, I encourage you to take these seven self-care actions to heart. By replenishing your energy, relaxing your mind, and gaining perspective, you’ll set yourself up for not only a fulfilling summer but also a successful year ahead.

Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s the foundation of great fundraising. You can’t pour from an empty cup. So, this summer, let’s commit to keeping that cup full.

You’ve got this!

Jeff