Being an NGO leader often feels like you’re juggling endless responsibilities—strategic planning, team management, board engagement, fundraising, and keeping your organisation aligned with its mission. It’s no wonder that so many nonprofit leaders feel stretched to their limits.
But here’s the truth: while the job is demanding, it’s not impossible (even though sometimes it feels like that!). With the right tools and support, you can navigate the challenges, manage your workload, and lead your organisation sustainably. Let’s explore how you can get there.
1. Recognise When You Need Help
The first step in lightening your load is acknowledging when things aren’t working. Look out for signs like:
- Constantly working late or sacrificing personal time.
- Feeling disconnected or unmotivated.
- Struggling to keep up with competing demands. Recognising these challenges doesn’t mean you’re failing—it’s a call to action to find the resources you need.
2. Assess Your Current Toolkit
Take a moment to reflect on the tools and systems you’re using to manage your responsibilities. Are they working for you, or are they adding to the stress? Consider:
- Are your processes efficient, or do they need streamlining?
- Do you have access to software or tools to ease administrative tasks like fundraising or volunteer management?
- Are your governance and operational roles clearly defined? Sometimes, small tweaks to your systems can make a big difference.
3. Strengthen Your Kaimahi / Team
The right people are one of the most valuable resources for any leader. Building a capable, empowered kaimahi / team can help you focus on the bigger picture.
- Delegate effectively: Share the workload by assigning tasks to those with the skills and capacity to handle them.
- Upskill your kaimahi / team: Offer training opportunities so your kaimahi / staff and tūao / volunteers can grow into larger roles.
4. Build a Network of Support
Leadership can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Finding the right support network is essential to long-term success.
- Mentors can provide guidance and share lessons from their own leadership journeys.
- Peer networks allow you to connect with other leaders facing similar challenges and exchange ideas.
- Coaching helps you develop strategies tailored to your leadership style and organisational needs.
5. Advocate for Organisational Support
You don’t have to carry the load on your own. Advocate for the resources and support your organisation needs to thrive:
- Request additional staffing or funding to meet growing demands.
- Reassess your organisation’s strategic priorities to focus on what’s achievable.
- Engage your board in governance tasks to lighten the operational burden such as fundraising, advocacy or stakeholder relationships.
6. Focus on Sustainability in Leadership
Leadership is a long-term game, and your sustainability is key. Finding the right tools and support is just one part of the puzzle—prioritising your wellbeing is equally important.
- Take time to set clear boundaries between work and personal life.
- Plan regular breaks to recharge and maintain perspective.
- Use the Te Whare Tapa Whā model to nurture holistic wellbeing—physical, mental, spiritual, social, and whenua health.
The Role of a Coach in Finding Support
If you’re unsure where to start, working with a coach can help you identify the right tools, processes, and support systems for your role. Working with a coach can help you:
- Pinpoint the areas where you’re most stretched.
- Develop practical strategies to lighten your workload.
- Build confidence and clarity in your leadership.
Coaching is about finding solutions that work for you and your unique organisation—not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Final Thoughts
Being an NGO leader is tough, but you don’t have to do it all alone. With the right tools, systems, and support in place, you can lead effectively and sustainably.
Ready to find the support you need? Book a free 30-minute consultation with me, The NGO Coach, and let’s explore how to make your role more manageable—and more rewarding.
Your leadership is valuable—let’s make sure you have the support to keep thriving.
Yours in slowing down,
Rochelle x