You can’t do everything (and that’s okay)

"Scope creep" is the silent killer of regional charities.

You start out to provide youth services. Then you notice the kids are hungry, so you start a breakfast program. Then you notice their parents need help with forms, so you start an advocacy service. Suddenly, you’re doing ten things poorly instead of one thing brilliantly.

I see this constantly in strategic planning sessions. The passion in the room is incredible. Everyone wants to fix every problem. But a Strategic Plan isn't a wish list. It’s a list of things you are refusing to do so you can focus on what matters.

Saying "no" is the hardest job of a Board. But if you don't say no to the good ideas, you won't have the resources for the great ones.

Let’s simplify. What is the one thing your community would miss if you closed your doors tomorrow?

Do that. The rest is just noise.