Ops Insights #049 Get Uncomfortable to Stay Relevant

September 27, 2024 | Read Time: 2 minutes | Written by Jenny Kleintop

Think of that moment. The moment where you felt, wow, I nailed it. I nailed it for me, for our team, and for our organization. You pause, take a breath, smile, and say we are better because of it.

How long ago was that? Why can’t you make that happen more often?

I’m here to tell you that you can, but you have to be willing to get uncomfortable. This actually is a must-do to stay relevant as data, tech, and the fundraising landscape change. If you are still operating the same way you were 5, 10, or 15 years ago, you are outdated. It’s never too late to get curious, lean in, and learn how to adjust, tweak, enhance, and evolve to make things better.

– Always be Learning –

It’s all around you, around me, around us. I’ve learned to always be curious, especially as systems get more complex. I encourage you to do the same to stay relevant in your role, in your field, and in your career. Also, lean into learning outside of your direct area. I’ve learned so much from people outside my area, our sector, and various communities.

3 learnings that stand out for me:

  1. Never take anything for granted.

  2. Appreciate the heck out of people.

  3. Live in the moments.

Every day, every moment, there’s an opportunity to learn.

Just look up, get curious, and lean into learning.

Take Action

One big thing I’ve always leaned into and I encourage you to do the same… lean into learning.

  1. Get curious and find ways to learn. 

  2. Tap into various resources. This is one of the great things about being in the nonprofit sector… There are a lot of people who want to help and there are even plenty of free resources.

What are you leaning into?

You’ve got this!  

👋 See you next time,

Jenny


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Ops Insights #050 - 3 Teaching Techniques that Increase Engagement

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Ops Insights #048 Use History When You Have No Mentor