OK, let me admit it right here. I'm not always in a great mood. At the grocery store, when I run into folks I know from raising funds in my community, I'm not always entirely happy to interact with them. If you are engaged in active fundraising in your community as a volunteer or a professional, you know what I mean. It can be tough to always be "on", and more fundamentally, to keep your spirits up.

Changing grocery stores is not always an option(!), but I do have some thoughts about how to keep our spirits up over time, along with our attitudes about our work.

First, a brief story. Many years ago, when I was about to take my first position in fundraising, I attended a cultivation event for a local arts group. I was introduced to the woman who was the Development Director. "Angela" (not her real name) barely said hello to me and then launched into a harsh criticism of her employer, the host arts group. Afterwards, I wondered why she would do that, and in front of a stranger like me. Later I learned that Angela was quitting the arts group and going off to a new job, but that still doesn't explain why she criticized her employer at a cultivation event. I can only conclude that she was discouraged, feeling negative, and lashing out. What she said did not change my view of the arts group, but it did set my opinion of her.

And that's what can happen when we don't tend to our own moods and don't take care of ourselves emotionally. Having a bad mood doesn't necessarily indicate mental health problems, but if your down moods recur frequently, there might be an issue indicated which you cannot solve for yourself. You may need to consult with a mental health professional. Talk with someone who loves you and ask, "Have you observed a change in my attitude and moods lately?" If so, be sure to follow up and consult with someone.

Also, plan and take a vacation, even if it's only one day off to do something that usually makes you happy. And if that one day off went well, plan to take another day off regularly. It can do wonders for your mood and your attitude.

The past 2-3 years in the pandemic (seems longer, doesn't it?) have affected many of us to be more discouraged and in some cases, even depressed. And there are good reasons for that. But do take care of yourself and monitor how often your moods are interfering with your effectiveness in your work to raise funds. Ask for feedback from others.

And remember - we're all there with you. We understand, you're not alone, and we want you to feel - not just present as - your best self.