Got Fresh? 8 Ways to Immerse Yourself in New Income Possibilities

If a picture is worth a thousand words, what value does an inspirational idea have when it helps you to solve a challenge? A library? Maybe an Amazon.com warehouse? When money seems like the obvious stumbling and impossible to earn, you need to find new ways to look at your situation. Have hope. You can solve your challenges. Over the last seventeen years, my work has been known for its innovation and creativity. Here are eight sources of inspirations I use when I need ideas to help nonprofit leaders deliver on their missions’ including the money to fund it. Pick one or more of the following and get fresh.

1. A children’s or teen book on the topic.

2. An adult book on topic—something old that you haven’t read in several years or something new.

3. New research on topic. Read whole articles or just the abstracts.

4. Art. How do artists depict the area you serve?

5. Scan new and old media: TV, video, newsletters, YouTube, ads, podcasts, and listservs.

6. Others like you. Visit nonprofits in an adjacent city when you travel. If you can’t afford the time, visit their websites. Call to introduce yourself and learn more.

7. Others not like you but who share the same or a similar need. How has the construction or another industry handled it? What would a past or current presidents do? How would someone whom you admire solve it?

8. Call on an expert. Consultants and national nonprofit service groups offer advise, articles and materials to help.