From the Busy Party to the Exhaustion Party

In past blogs, we’ve talked about the “Busy Party”—that gathering where folks stand around comparing how busy they are, when in reality they could just get back to their desks and keep getting less busy..

These days, I’m sad to report the Busy Party has been replaced by the Exhaustion Party.

• I’m tired of hearing bad news.

• I’m exhausted from hearing “no.”

• My brain hurts from the rapid-fire, ever-changing information.

Unlike the Busy Party, this one I get.

And let me be clear: this isn’t a political statement.

This is about humanity and perseverance.

You do the work you do because, as Mister Rogers reminded us, you are a Helper. 

You find peace in your soul and love in your heart by making a difference. I love that about you—even if I don’t know you. Sure, you could probably make more money in the for-profit world. But that’s not who you are.

Am I talking about me?

About Amy?

Definitely about Ben!

I’m talking about all of us—helpers, coaches, and partners—working together to change the world one person served, one donation at a time.

Learning From the Weight We Carry

Recently, I had surgery for a torn tendon in my foot. The recovery was no fun—and I quickly learned I am a very impatient patient. 

The heavy cast felt like it weighed 150 pounds, dragging me down.

Many of us have felt that same weight lately, cast or not.

But here’s the truth: humanity matters. Please don’t lose yours. You’re better than that.

Ask one more person to support your cause. Be nimble. Stay open to new ideas. Yes, we’ve had some hard conversations with clients about losing government grants. No,

it’s not OK. But in the face of resistance, you must find perseverance.

Make your space a safe space—for fears, for hopes, for conversations that help people find extra energy.Then make a plan.

Where Hope Comes From

After a tough call with a prospective client who felt completely drained, he told me something that stuck: “Our conversation made him feel hopeful.”

Why?

Because we went back to basics. We talked about telling his story with fresh resolve and new ideas that could bring in funding.

Here’s what I know:

• Hope comes from having a plan.

• Energy comes from executing new ideas.

And sometimes hope is renewed, by doing something as simple as calling and thanking a donor.

Keep Going

I know you’re tired. I know the noise around us is nonstop.But take time for quiet reflection.

Remember: what you do is critical. You are making the world a little less hungry, healthier, better educated, safer, and more inclusive.

And yes—make five more calls a day. 😊

If you need a listening ear or some fresh ideas, Team Kat & Mouse is here for you.

And remember—if we made it through COVID by helping each other, we can make it through this, too.