One of summer’s constant joys is taking a break from work to go on vacation. Whether alone or with family or friends, the time away from work and the routine of daily life is a welcome respite.
Some people love going to the same spot each year as that familiarity creates deep connections and memories while others prefer to explore new places and find delight in the adventure. When asked if I prefer beach or mountain vacations, my answer is always — mountain.
There is a majesty in the mountains that is so out of the ordinary, especially for us Ohioans, that I relish the sight. Last summer, I hiked the Tour du Mont Blanc, which I shared in a post about lessons learned. This year, I did a few day hikes in that same region and when I saw the trails again with new eyes, I was overwhelmed with what my friends and I accomplished.
First, the human body is remarkable. The ability to train, gain strength, learn skills, and reach goals never thought possible is almost indescribable. We see it in events like the Olympics or this summer with the World Cup, when athletes earn records, but that exhilaration is not reserved for the best among us. It’s something we can all experience in our own ways.
Second, spending time in nature is as much, or more, about mental health as it is about physical health. Exposure to the outdoors is oft-cited for feelings of calm, reductions in blood pressure, and many other health benefits. Being connected to something larger than yourself and using all your senses to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of a forest or a rushing river is so grounding that it becomes the foundation for self-care.
Third, when we push ourselves to do something hard, we are telling our minds and bodies that we can. I was reminded of an interview with Robin Arzon where she said she “out-distances the doubt.” I was pushing myself this summer to hike to a lake that I had not yet seen. The trail seemed endless and the sun was beating down on a very hot day. I wanted to turn around many times, but I just kept going. Out-distance the doubtwas my mantra.
When I reached the lake, it took my breath away as it was perfectly still. The reflection and the water clarity was stunning. The beauty remains with me but the fact that I did out-distance the doubt is what is carrying me forward.
I share this with you because nonprofit leaders are faced with mountains of challenges. The sun is beating down and the trail seems endless. They are driven by mission impact but the barriers to funding, staffing, and other resources are massive.
If you are a board member, donor, or volunteer, know that you play a critical role in the journey.
- What levels of support have you given before and can you do more?
- Have you asked the chief executive what they need to be successful so that expectations are clear?
- Are you working in constructive partnership with everyone focused on the same goals and outcomes?
- Does the chief executive have time away from work, and when they do take vacation are they truly unplugged?
If you are a nonprofit chief executive or staff member, know that you are not alone.
- We see all that you are managing and achieving, despite the obstacles, and we are at the ready to help.
- We want you to know the magical power of rest and support you slowing down to take a break and recharge.
- We know how tired you are and hope the doubt is not outdistancing you.
- We believe in the power of nature and share in the need for little moments in local parks to big moments on summer vacation – all of which matter as your health matters most.
The people doing the hardest work in our communities need rest as much as they need resources. The pace of work is as relentless as the trail.
The time spent sitting at the lake was worth every step and moment of doubt — it was exactly what I needed. My summer wish for nonprofit leaders is that they, too, find their moments of calm and beauty. I do not doubt their ability to go the distance, but I also know they can’t do it alone. Together, we can move mountains.
