A Lack of Strategic Planning?

Hey Nonprofit Leader, What’s Keeping You Awake at Night?

I used to be surprised when I came across a nonprofit without a strategic plan. Notice I said, used to be. These days, I’m more shocked when I meet one that actually has a current plan. It’s like finding a unicorn...or a nonprofit that loves writing grant reports. Rare, but they exist.

The truth is, a lot of nonprofits are out there winging it. And while improvisation works great in jazz or comedy, it’s not the best strategy for leading an organization. Let’s face it, without a strategic plan, you’re essentially saying, “Let’s see where the wind takes us!” Spoiler alert: it’s usually straight into chaos or missed opportunities.

The Road Trip Analogy (Nonprofit Edition)

Imagine setting out on a road trip with no destination in mind, no map, and only a vague idea of where the gas stations are. Sounds fun, right? Now replace “road trip” with “your nonprofit.” Without a strategic plan, you’re wandering aimlessly, hoping to stumble upon success. Maybe you’ll get there...maybe you’ll run out of gas in the middle of nowhere.

Even worse, some organizations do have a strategic plan—but it’s that glossy brochure gathering dust behind the Executive Director’s desk. It’s as if they think the mere existence of a plan will magically guide their efforts. Newsflash: a strategic plan is not a decorative office accessory. It’s a living, breathing guide meant to steer your nonprofit toward its goals.

Why Strategic Plans Matter

A strategic plan isn’t just a fancy document; it’s your nonprofit’s GPS. It aligns your mission, vision, and goals with actionable steps so you can grow sustainably, stay focused, and actually make an impact. Here’s what a good strategic plan can do:

1. Clarify Priorities and GoalsTired of chasing every shiny funding opportunity, even if it doesn’t align with your mission? A strategic plan ensures everyone knows what you’re working toward and helps you say “no” to distractions.

2. Adapt to Change Like a ProNonprofit landscapes change faster than a TikTok trend. Whether it’s donor expectations or new community needs, a strategic plan helps you pivot without panicking.

3. Impress FundersMajor donors and grantmakers love a good plan. It screams, “We know what we’re doing, and your money will actually make an impact.”

4. Get Everyone on the Same PageNo more board members and staff pulling in opposite directions. A strategic plan provides clarity on who’s doing what and why.

5. Boost Program ImpactFocus on what works and drop the rest. A strategic plan helps you zero in on programs that make a real difference.

6. Measure Success and AdjustBenchmarks and metrics keep you accountable. If something isn’t working, a plan gives you the tools to tweak your approach before things go off the rails.

Who’s Driving This Bus?

Your board should be in the driver’s seat of the strategic planning process. It’s their job to provide oversight and ensure the organization stays on course. Without a strategic plan, how do they know if you’re on the right path—or if you’ve accidentally veered into the nonprofit wilderness?

And yes, hiring a facilitator or consultant can help. (I know a great one—hint, hint.) They’ll bring an outside perspective and make sure the process doesn’t turn into a two-year exercise in overthinking.

A Final Thought

Strategic planning isn’t just a box to check off your to-do list. It’s a tool that helps you stop rehashing the same problems at every board meeting and start making real progress. So, what’s keeping you awake at night? If it’s a lack of direction, maybe it’s time to dust off that old plan—or better yet, start fresh with a roadmap that works.

Remember, the best plans don’t just sit on a shelf; they guide your journey. Let’s get your nonprofit out of neutral and back on the road to making a real impact.

Oh, and if you still want to wing it, at least pack snacks for the journey. You're going to need them.

Ready to chart your course? Let’s talk.