13. Change YOUR world, not just THE world!

When social impact organizations embark on strategic planning processes, our primary focus is often on creating a better world for our external communities or constituents.

We set ambitious goals, outline action plans, and allocate resources to address priority needs.

However, it's crucial not to overlook the needs and well-being of the internal community – our employees or volunteers.

Assessing your Internal Community

To change your world effectively, begin by asking some critical questions about your organization:

1. How are Our People?

Your team is the backbone of your organization. Are they experiencing burnout, stress, or disengagement? It's crucial to understand the well-being of your employees and volunteers, as a happy and motivated team is more likely to drive positive change in the world.

2. How are Our Processes?

Examine your internal processes and workflows. Are they efficient, or do they create unnecessary obstacles? Streamlining your operations can free up time and resources that can be better utilized for external change initiatives.

3. Are We Getting in Our Way?

Sometimes, organizational culture or bureaucracy can stifle innovation and creativity. Identify any internal barriers that hinder your team's ability to make a meaningful impact.

4. Do We Need Some Frank Conversations with Ourselves?

Honesty is the first step towards improvement. Have open and candid discussions within your organization to identify areas of improvement and areas of strength.

5. Are Our People Overworked and Unable to Serve as They Should?

Recognize the signs of burnout and overwork. Ensure that your team has a healthy work-life balance and the resources they need to excel in their roles.

Preparing for Change

Once you’ve gained a deep understanding of the current state of your organization from an internal perspective, the next phases of your strategic planning process should also be informed by the collective wisdom of your internal community. Here are some ways to do that:

• Design: Involve your team in the process of designing the way forward for your organization, i.e. your strategic plan. Collaboratively set goals, create action plans, and explore innovative solutions. Your employees are valuable sources of creativity and expertise, and their input can lead to more effective strategies.

• Prepare for Implementation: As you prepare for change, ensure that your internal community is ready and equipped for the journey. Keep them in the loop and invest in training, development, and the resources necessary to execute your strategic plans. A prepared team is a powerful force for change.

In conclusion, changing the world is a noble pursuit, but it should not come at the expense of your internal community. To truly make a difference, organizations must start by looking inwards, assessing the well-being of their people and the efficiency of their processes. The entire strategic planning process should always involve the very people who will be driving that change.

So, remember, to change the world effectively, change your own first. Only then can you make a lasting impact on the external world and create a better future for all.

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Fortunately, there's a solution that empowers social impact organizations to develop strategic plans that enable them change their internal and external worlds – the DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Strategic Plan Program! Join the next cohort to develop your strategic plan in-house CAREfully: collaboratively, affordably, robustly, and empoweringly.