The Mindset Mistakes Holding You Back From Raising More Money

Hi friend, welcome back to the podcast. Today, we’re diving into the mindset mistakes that keep our impact, budgets, teams, and dreams too small. If you’re here, I know you’re driven to create bold, transformative change—not just in your world, but across systems and communities. Me too. But sometimes, our mindset trips us up, and we don’t even realize it.

Here’s what we unpacked in this episode:  

- Scarcity Mindset About Money:  

  Many of us were raised to see money as scarce, stressful, or even taboo to discuss. But wealthy donors view money differently—it’s a growing resource, not a pie that disappears. Are you budgeting for your donors or hesitating to ask because you think it’s too much?  

- Time vs. Money Perspectives:  

  Wealthy individuals often value their time more than money. They know they can make more money, but time is irreplaceable. Nonprofit leaders, on the other hand, often ask for volunteers’ time but hesitate to ask for significant financial contributions. Let’s flip the script.  

- Fear of Delegating:  

  “If I want it done right, I’ll do it myself.” Sound familiar? This mindset limits your team and piles unnecessary work on your shoulders. Trust your team to rise to the occasion, or have the courage to hold them accountable if they don’t.  

- Avoiding Honest Conversations:  

  Kindness isn’t withholding feedback—it’s being clear and direct. Radical accountability builds stronger teams. Are you ready to stop sugarcoating and start having real conversations?  

- Settling for Passive Boards:  

  Your board isn’t just there for their name on your website. It’s time to reestablish expectations and turn your board into active partners in fundraising and advocacy.  

- Overvaluing Comfort:  

  Let’s be real: if comfort is your priority, nonprofit fundraising might not be the job for you. Growth and transformation live outside your comfort zone.  

- Taking Rejection Personally:  

  Hearing “no” isn’t the end—it’s information. The more you hear it, the closer you get to a “yes.” Reframe rejection as part of the process, not a reflection of your worth.  

Work on shifting your relationship with time, money, and risk to align with your bold goals. Practice honesty and accountability with your team, board, and donors.  Embrace discomfort as a sign you’re growing.  

If this resonated with you, let’s connect! Share this episode with a friend, reflect on where these mindset mistakes show up for you, and join me in creating a brave, bold, and generous world.  

Thanks for listening—I’m rooting for you! See you next time.

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If you're an org with at least $800k annual budget and major gifts is your top priority, but you need a better strategy and approach, get on the waitlist for the next CourageLab cohort here: https://julieordonez.kit.com/couragelab2