3 Ways to Embrace a Beginner’s Mindset
This article was written by Sophie Blondeau, Chief Strategy Officer at Sowen. Sophie helps companies and nonprofits define, execute, and measure strategies and activities that are at the intersection of doing good and doing well. She combines her decades in the advertisement industry with a deep understanding of data driven design, audience centricity, and cutting edge innovation.
TL:DR
The start of a new year is always an opportunity to start fresh, especially in how we approach our work. In the world of nonprofit organizations, the desire to create a lasting impact is ever-present. Yet, often, we find ourselves caught in the web of routine, falling prey to established processes and preconceived notions. This is where the concept of a "beginner's mind" comes into play.
Derived from Zen Buddhism, a beginner's mind is characterized by an open and receptive attitude, free from preconceptions or judgments. Here are three ways you can apply a beginner's mind to shake up your nonprofit's work and drive meaningful change. So before the new year slips away and our calendars fill up, let’s set an intention to embrace a Beginner’s mindset to unlock greater innovation, impact, and opportunities.
1) Reevaluate Your Data Strategy
It's easy to become entrenched in a particular strategy or approach, assuming it's the best way forward. This is especially true if we spent the last quarter of 2023 in planning sessions! A beginner's mind encourages you to reevaluate your data strategy with fresh eyes. This doesn’t necessarily mean making drastic changes. Data is a valuable resource for nonprofits, especially with the advent of generative AI. . Don't limit yourself to the data you've always collected. Explore new sources of information and analytics tools that can provide fresh insights. Embrace technology to streamline processes and enhance your organization's efficiency and ability to connect with your key stakeholders.
2) Rethink Impact Measurement
Nonprofits often rely on traditional metrics to measure their impact, but a beginner's mind prompts you to rethink these measurements. Instead of merely counting the number of people served or dollars raised, consider qualitative measures. Engage with beneficiaries to understand their stories and experiences. Listen to their voices and use these narratives to illustrate your organization's impact in a more human and relatable way. Challenge the status quo and be open to exploring new avenues for impact. For example, identify one more impact measurement to add to the mix.
3) Prioritize Employee Well Being
In the pursuit of a nonprofit's mission, employee well-being can sometimes take a back seat. However, a beginner's mind reminds us that a motivated team that allows for self care is essential for achieving meaningful results. In his podcast with Gloria Mark, the New York Time’s Ezra Klein dove into attention, burnout, and distraction elements we all see and feel as a part of our lives. Listening to it is a great start to the journey of creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and encouraged to share innovative ideas. Consider flexible work arrangements, mental health support, and opportunities for professional growth. It’s a time to reset, check in and preempt burn out.
Make 2024 the year that your organization adds a beginner's mind to your toolbox. It has the potential to be a powerful tool for reinvigorating your organization's work and driving meaningful change. By reevaluating your data strategy, rethinking impact measurement, prioritizing employee well-being you can shake up your nonprofit's approach and unlock new avenues for innovation and impact. Remember, the path to positive change often begins with a willingness to see the world with fresh eyes and an open mind.