Yes, it has been a very long time since I’ve posted here. I’ve spent the past couple of years soul-searching on a variety of topics that I probably should have blogged about. But there were sensitivities to consider, and blogging on these topics in a public venue would have been ill-advised.
In a nutshell, I believed I was becoming weary of the field of philanthropy and fundraising. I took a look at some other career directions, but none really excited me. I decided to dissect my lack of enjoyment, thinking that if I could isolate the elements that I didn’t like, I could change them.
So I did just that. And I discovered that none of the elements I disliked are directly related to philanthropy or fundraising. In fact, the idea of directing resources to make the world a better place is still very exciting.
The elements I did not like had to do with being a part of an organization, to be told to march in one direction while being nudged in another, to be mandated to execute plans that I didn’t have faith in – - basically, to be an employee.
I’ve realized this about myself for quite a long time, actually. However, I passed it off as immaturity on my part. After all, I really was working my dream job. I had a lot of flexibility, did not have to punch a time clock, was able to take time off if my daughter was ill, and could even occasionally sneak off to a hair appointment if I needed to.
I had great coworkers, great bosses, and compared to many non-profits, a great physical space in which to work.
I lectured myself for quite a few years on my resistant behaviour. I asked myself what in the heck did I possible want?
The ridiculous answer kept whispering itself to me: freedom.
And so I submitted my resignation to this wonderful organization, said goodbye to my rather nice paycheque, and have hung out my own shingle.
And suddenly, philanthropy has become a fascinating topic again for me!
Stay tuned for further updates, such as my website (under construction as of this writing) and more.
