I keep getting asked the same question no matter the stetting I’m in. People wonder, “How can I get those I’m working with to stay upbeat and engaged in such hard times?” It’s not an idle question. Funding for many groups has been cut just as community needs have gone up. Here’s what you can do.

The frustration that so many people feel about these changing times – indeed, even the anger and resentment that I often hear – is real. Many people are struggling with why a foundation funds one effort and not another? Why aren’t funders investing where it matters most? Why have some partners pulled out? People ask, “How can we make progress under these conditions, and does anyone hear my concerns?”

I do. I have heard so many people who are doing such good work express deep concerns about their ability to make a difference in these hard times. They often tell me they’re deeply frustrated with the very people they work with – their colleagues, partners, funders, and others – who seem to be hunkering down to weather the storm, even retreating. What are they to do?

One critical step is to help people come back to the meaning in their work. (This goes for each of us, too.) Now more than ever it’s important to have an open conversation with your staff, with others, about this. The reality is that you may not get the money you need or want, but in the end no one can take the meaning of the work from you. Each of us must stay connected to this meaning.

Importantly, this can only truly happen for each of us when we are with others. For sometimes it is only by hearing someone else’s voice that we can hear and see ourselves; that we can make sense of something we have struggled with internally; that we can find language to go with some felt-unknown. So, here are two basic questions you should ask during this conversation:


The first question will help reveal the sense of meaning people hold, and seek, in their efforts. The second is about how we can make sure we’re on the right trajectory. You see, what’s key about helping people stay attached to the meaning of their work is their ability to hold a sense of possibility about what can be. But be clear: a genuine sense of possibility does not emerge from believing that you can achieve all your goals; rather, it is the belief that you are on the right path. So, while you and others may feel frustrated about current conditions, and you may need to put your biggest goals on hold, the key is to help people see how they can keep moving forward in a meaningful way.

Finally, in these situations, people often want to bring in an inspirational speaker, buy inspirational CDs, or pass out inspirational books – each and all of which can be helpful. But in order to keep moving, to overcome daily obstacles, to hold a sense of purpose and intention, you will need something beyond those efforts. Luckily, it’s what is already within you and others. Together, you must name the meaning that you seek. And by naming it you can also reclaim it and hold it for yourself. It is this inspiration that each of us needs most of all. And it is only this inspiration – that we carry within us – that is durable and lasting.

So, please, take a moment to answer the two questions above, and be clear about the meaning you seek, and how in these hard times you can make a down payment that counts. This we can do.