There’s something about the start of a new year that feels so fresh and full of potential, isn’t there? It’s the opening of a brand-new notebook—clean pages and endless possibilities. And when it comes to leading a nonprofit team, that energy is the perfect opportunity to set goals that are clear, motivating, and achievable.
But let’s face it: goal-setting can also be a bit overwhelming. There’s so much to do, so many moving pieces, and a mission that always feels bigger than the resources on hand.
That’s why I wanted to share a few goal-setting hacks that have worked wonders for nonprofits. These are the kinds of tips that help teams move from just talking about goals to actually making them happen.
Start with the Big Picture
One of the biggest mistakes I see teams make is diving straight into task lists without stepping back and asking, “What’s the bigger vision?” Before you start hammering out goals, take a moment to reconnect with your organization’s mission.
Ask yourselves:
- What impact do we want to have this year?
- How does that align with the broader mission of our organization?
When you start with the big picture, it’s easier to identify the goals that will truly move the needle of progress. It also helps cut out the “nice-to-haves” that tend to distract from the priorities that really matter.
Break It Down into Bite-Sized Goals
Once you’ve got the big picture in mind, it’s time to break it down. Big, ambitious goals are exciting, but they can also feel intimidating. Instead of saying, “We’re going to raise $500,000 this year,” focus on the smaller, more actionable and attainable steps that will get you there.
For example:
- What do you need to raise each quarter?
- How many donor meetings will that require?
- What other revenue streams can you tap into?
Smaller, bite-sized goals make the big ones feel less daunting. They also give your team regular wins to celebrate along the way, which regularly boosts morale as you progress through the year.
Make It Collaborative
Here’s the thing about goals: they’re not just for leadership. If your team doesn’t feel connected to the goals or share the passion for attaining the goals set, it’s going to be especially tough to achieve them.
Bring everyone into the process and share the vision early on. Hold a brainstorming session, ask for input, and make sure the goals reflect the strengths and ideas of the entire team. There could be an effective strategy that could open the door to even more growth for your set goals. When people feel like they’ve had a hand in shaping the plan, they’re much more invested in making them happen.
Keep Them Visible
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen teams set goals, only to tuck them away in a document that no one looks at until the end of the year. Out of sight, out of mind, right?
Find a way to keep your goals front and center. Maybe it’s a whiteboard in the office, a shared dashboard, or even a monthly email update. The key is to create regular reminders that keep everyone focused and accountable.
Celebrate Progress, Not Just Results
Nonprofit work is a marathon, not a sprint. And while it’s tempting to only celebrate when you hit those big milestones, it’s just as important to recognize progress along the way.
Did you hit a monthly fundraising target? Great—celebrate it. Did a team member knock it out of the park on a project? Shout them out. Celebrating progress keeps momentum alive and reminds everyone that the work they’re doing matters, even if the finish line still feels far away.
Look Ahead with Intention
2025 is full of possibility, and the goals you set now will shape the year ahead. So, take the time to set goals that excite your team, align with your mission, and give you a clear path forward.
If goal-setting still feels like a mountain to climb, I’m here to help. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh perspective or a little brainstorming session to unlock the ideas that will drive your team forward.
Here’s to a year of impact, growth, and big wins for your organization. You’ve got this.
Talk soon,
Kari Anderson
Principal, Incite Consulting