You work your fingers to the bone at your nonprofit. When did you last dance around, maybe giggle, fist bump, throw a party? We’re so good at focusing on what isn’t going well. Well, I’m here to tell you there are plenty of things to be celebrating – big and small. So let’s make sure that recognizing commitment, effort and achievement is high on your list of things to do.

3 Reasons Why Celebrating is Better Than…..Well, Most Things

1. It’s a motivator! You have the honor of working with some very special people. They pour their hearts into their mission-driven work. It would be easy to keep chugging away toward the next priority, the next goal to achieve. There is always something more to do, right? Well, take a minute and focus on re-energizing board members and staff. You’ll validate that their work is valued and that leads to increased satisfaction.

2. It builds connections among members of your team! That’s right – when you take a break from the daily grind, you can learn more about the other aspects of people’s lives. And retention studies tell us that having solid social relationships at work is a factor in why people stay. So whether it’s with volunteers or employees, use this opportunity to intentionally create space to build relationships.

3. It reminds you of the big picture! That might sound odd, but many times we charge forward to complete a project, develop the budget, submit a grant application and forget to focus on the big picture. When you celebrate, it’s a wonderful time to unite around your mission. To think of the people in the community who are counting on you and realize the work you do everyday matters.

And there’s a plethora of ways to celebrate and show appreciation. They don’t have to be expensive either – so no excuses!

Here are a few ideas:

* For the person who is always putting out fires, give them a firefighter’s hat that is engraved with appropriate accolades. You can also present several different hats to the person who wears many hats.
* Photoshop your team’s group photo on a Wheaties box. What an amazing team!
* Host a picnic at the park, lake or winery. Buy tickets to the ball game or race track.
* Have a “bright idea” award for the person with the most innovative idea that has gotten some traction. You might want to give out a cool lamp or a supply of light bulbs.
* To celebrate an achievement, send an email message with an appropriate mp3 song as an attachment i.e. “She Works Hard for Her Money,” “Taking Care of Business” or “The Hallelujah Chorus.”  Then gather round and sing along!

Remember – everything goes better with food. It’s amazing how many restaurants and shops will donate food when they know it’s for a hard working team.  Now get out there and celebrate!

What else have you done to celebrate with your team? Share comments below…..would love to hear what’s worked for you!

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