236 | Does the centricity-effect get in the way of grit when fundraising becomes really difficult?

236 | Does the centricity-effect get in the way of grit when fundraising becomes really difficult?

The Fundraising Talent Podcast, a production of Responsive Fundraising

The stars certainly aligned on this one; Erica came prepared to talk about grit, which is a subject that we have not yet talked about on the podcast. For those not familiar with psychologist Angela Duckworth’s work, she defined grit as the "perseverance and passion for long-term goals.” Our conversation today had me wondering whether all the chatter about donor-centricity and renewal rates hinders us from developing the grit that is important in getting done what can be really hard work. 

I get that all these consumer concepts make us feel warm and fuzzy about what we’re doing; but, if we are honest with ourselves, we may come to the conclusion that all of that may just be better suited for easier days. If you haven’t noticed, fundraising hasn’t gotten any easier in the last twelve months. Is a donor who really doesn’t give a damn the donor that we want at the center of our thinking? And, if the assumption is that the donor is always right, how are we supposed to bless and release those who don’t align with the mission?

As always, we are grateful to our friends at Cueback for sponsoring The Fundraising Talent Podcast. Also, if you want to learn how Responsive Fundraising can help you create a more holistic fundraising experience for you and your donors, let me know.

As always, we are grateful to CueBack for sponsoring The Fundraising Talent Podcast.