Why Gratitude Is Important

Especially During Your Busiest Season

“Piglet noticed that even though he had a Very Small Heart, it could hold a rather large amount of Gratitude.”

— A.A. Milne, "Winnie-the-Pooh"

November always reminds us to slow down and notice what’s good. But for fundraisers, it’s also one of the busiest times of the year — appeal letters, Giving Tuesday, year-end campaigns, donor thank-yous, and event planning all compete for our time and energy.

So, how can you pause for gratitude when your to-do list is longer than ever?

The truth is, gratitude isn’t just a feel-good exercise — it’s a powerful mindset tool that can help you stay grounded, motivated, and connected through the chaos of year-end fundraising.

Gratitude Keeps You Centered

When you intentionally notice the small wins — a donor who increases their gift, a social media post that sparks unexpected engagement, or even a colleague who thanks you for your hard work — you remind yourself why this work matters. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s still unfinished to what’s already going well.

Gratitude Builds Resilience

Fundraising is full of ups and downs. Not every ask gets a “yes,” and not every campaign goes exactly as planned. But when you practice gratitude, you build emotional endurance. You start seeing challenges as part of a bigger picture — and you bounce back faster because your perspective stays hopeful.

Gratitude Strengthens Relationships

Donors, volunteers, board members, and teammates all thrive on appreciation. When you express gratitude often and sincerely, you build trust and deepen connections — the foundation of all successful fundraising.

Three Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude This Season

1. Start or End Each Day with a Gratitude Note.
   Write down one thing that went well today — big or small. Maybe a donor shared a heartfelt story. Maybe you finally finished that appeal draft. Maybe someone brought coffee to the office. Naming it helps you end the day feeling accomplished, not depleted.

2. Celebrate Small Wins with Your Team.
   Before your next staff meeting, take two minutes to name what’s working. Recognize progress: “We’re halfway to our goal!” or “That new Instagram post is getting great engagement!” These quick moments of shared appreciation can boost morale and motivation.

3. Thank Donors Early and Often.
   Don’t wait until year-end to show appreciation. Send a quick email, handwritten note, or even a voicemail message to thank someone for their generosity or continued support. Gratitude expressed in real time builds stronger donor relationships — and makes you feel more connected, too.

Gratitude doesn’t make the work less demanding, but it does make it more meaningful. When you notice and celebrate what’s going right — even in the rush — you create space for joy, connection, and renewed energy.

Because the more grateful you are, the more resilient you become.

And that’s something worth celebrating this season.