Last week I was able to attend the GOFOD3 conference in Wales, where I attended several sessions and heard interesting discussions on a range of topics from fundraising to housing. However, what really stuck with me was the challenges being faced by the fundraisers present from charities small and large. This got me thinking about how I have led my teams when times are tough. Hopefully the blog below will be helpful to you or perhaps others in your team when that monthly income is just not where you want it to be.
Charity fundraising in the UK is not for the faint-hearted. With rising costs, donor fatigue, economic uncertainty, and increasing demand for services, it can sometimes feel like fundraisers are being asked to fill a bucket full of holes using only a teacup. In such a turbulent environment, it’s easy to become overwhelmed — or worse, demoralised.
That’s where the concept of circles of influence comes in.
Popularised by among others, Stephen Covey, this idea asks us to distinguish between what we can control, what we can influence, and what’s outside our control altogether. In the world of fundraising, it’s a vital mindset shift.
You can’t control whether inflation will rise, or whether the government will announce new spending cuts. You certainly can’t control whether a major donor signs that cheque, or a Trust accepts your application over the many others crossing their desk. But you can control how you communicate your charity’s impact. You can control how well you steward your donors. You can influence how you present your case for support, and the experience a donor has when they choose to give.
By focusing on our circle of influence, we reduce anxiety and channel our energy where it actually makes a difference.
This mindset has helped me and many others stay focused during the hardest moments of the past few years. It helps remind us that good fundraising isn’t always about the biggest campaign or the boldest target — it’s about consistency, relationships, and values-led decisions, even in the face of uncertainty.
Fundraisers are often expected to be miracle workers. But we are human. We do our best in the context we’re given. If you’re feeling the pressure, take a step back. Ask: What’s truly in my control today?
You might be surprised how powerful that can be.
