212: Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Aligning Actions with Intentions with Brian Ford

In this episode of What the Fundraising, Mallory dives deep with Brian Ford to explore the psychological barriers that keep us from translating good intentions into meaningful action. Brian sheds light on self-sabotage, the complex belief systems that shape our behavior, and how small, consistent actions can ultimately shift our mindset and redefine our identity. Together, they discuss practical strategies for nonprofit leaders and fundraisers to overcome internal resistance, implement disciplined action, and create supportive systems that foster real progress toward their goals.

Brian Ford is the host and founder of Self Improvement Daily, a podcast where he has shared almost 2000 personal development tips and earned over 20 million downloads. He's also the founder of For Purpose Foundation where he uses self improvement as a fundraising vehicle for good.

Key takeaways from the episode: 

• Identify key barriers to turning intention into action, including self-sabotage.
• Learn how belief systems shape choices through the Identity Behavior Feedback Loop.
• Recognize the impact of small, consistent actions in overcoming self-sabotage.
• Redefine discipline as making the right choices despite challenges.
• Distinguish self-sabotage from genuine intentions using self-reflection.
• Adopt a growth mindset by learning from mistakes through self-compassion.
• Apply practical strategies like inversion standards to support personal growth.

Get all the resources from today’s episode here. 

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If you’re looking to raise more from the right funders, then you’ll want to check out my Power Partners Formula, a step-by-step approach to identifying the optimal partners for your organization. This free masterclass offers a great starting point.