Creating Our Future with Organizations by Design

  “I will prioritize my physical and mental health  as I work to build a better world.” This statement is more than a mantra—it’s a vital reminder for every change maker who feels the weight of the world on their shoulders. We step into this work driven by a deep desire to create justice, equity, and opportunity for all. But often, in the rush to transform the world around us, we neglect the world within us. The truth is simple but often overlooked:  you cannot pour from an empty cup.  When your mind is clouded by exhaustion, your body drained of energy, and your spirit dimmed by neglect, your ability to create change is diminished. The best work comes from the best version of yourself, and that requires nurturing the very vessel through which your impact flows—you. Why Prioritizing Yourself Isn’t Selfish In the nonprofit and activist worlds, there’s a pervasive culture of martyrdom. Sacrificing sleep, skipping meals, and burning the midnight oil are often seen as ba...

In the realm of independent contracting, where the ebb and flow of contracts dictate our professional lives, the transition between projects can often be anxiety-inducing. As someone whose livelihood hinges on securing contracts, I've experienced the familiar pang of worry that creeps in as one contract nears its end. It's that feeling—akin to the Sunday before the Monday of work—that can cast a shadow over the otherwise fulfilling nature of our work. However, through a transformative mindset shift, I've learned to turn that worry into wonder, fostering a healthier and more confident approach to the uncertainties of the freelance world. Embracing Change: Change is a constant companion for independent contractors. Projects conclude, clients move on, and the prospect of what comes next can be both thrilling and daunting. It's natural to feel a sense of unease as a contract reaches its conclusion, but instead of succumbing to worry, I've learned to embrace change as an...