# Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits

> Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits - Free leadership and management training for nonprofit leaders worldwide.
> Founded by Jim Morgan, former CEO of Applied Materials.
> 66,890 books distributed across 192 countries.

## About This Site

Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits offers a free booklet, audiobook, certified course, toolkits,
and 200 blog posts on nonprofit leadership and management. All content is free.

The intellectual backbone is eight practical insights organized into three categories:
Culture (Cultivating Culture, Respect & Trust, Bad News is Good News),
Planning (Develop Court Sense, The Whole Job, Prioritize & Focus),
and Implementation (Book It and Ship It, Who's Got the Monkey?).

## Key Pages

- [Home](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/): Overview and digital bundle signup
- [About](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/about/): Jim Morgan's background, mission, and team
- [Insights](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/insights/cultivating-culture/): Eight practical leadership insights
- [Course](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/course/): Free learning modules
- [Resources](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/resources/): Downloadable tools and media
- [RSS Feed](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/rss.xml): Subscribe to new posts

## Optional

Individual posts are also available in markdown format at `/{slug}.md`.

## Practical Insights

- [Cultivating Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/insights/cultivating-culture/): You will never change an organization's culture just by telling employees that the culture needs to change. You must take deliberate action to create and nurture the culture you want.
- [Respect and Trust Your People](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/insights/respect-and-trust/): To successfully lead a nonprofit you must cultivate a culture of trust and respect. Trust is born of respect, and it is the foundation of all good management.
- [Bad News is Good News](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/insights/bad-news-is-good-news/): Always listen for and seek out signs of trouble. Use porpoising to gather information at all levels of your organization. Bad news is good news if you do something about it.
- [Develop Court Sense](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/insights/develop-court-sense/): In the nonprofit sector, court sense means understanding the environment that impacts your organization. Look up, look forward, and look around to anticipate problems and adjust your strategy.
- [The Whole Job](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/insights/the-whole-job/): Your nonprofit has specific functions and processes, as well as regulations it must follow. A weakness in any operational area can negate successes in others.
- [Prioritize and Focus](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/insights/prioritize-and-focus/): Nonprofit boards and staff teams must prioritize and focus on the most important decisions and tasks. Taking time to plan creates a useful rhythm and routine.
- [Book It and Ship It](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/insights/book-it-and-ship-it/): Planning is essential, but success comes from implementation. Book It and Ship It means making a decision, putting it in motion, and managing the consequences.
- [Who's Got the Monkey?](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/insights/who-owns-the-monkey/): To create a culture of accountability, reinforce individual ownership of problems. Make sure responsibility stays clear and always ask who's got the monkey.

## Course Modules

- [Cultivating Culture Lesson](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/course/cultivating-culture/): Learn the impact and importance of organizational culture, with specific steps you can take to intentionally shape your organization's culture for greater resilience and impact.
- [Respect and Trust Your People](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/course/respect-and-trust-your-people/): Discover how a culture of fundamental trust and respect is essential for every organization, with tools and practices for building respect across a diverse team.
- [Bad News is Good News](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/course/bad-news-is-good-news/): Learn the power of discovering problems early and often, with practices for early problem detection and strategies for discussing bad news with your board.
- [Develop Court Sense](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/course/develop-court-sense/): Learn how to identify driving forces outside your organization and manage the change that comes with adapting to external factors.
- [The Whole Job](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/course/the-whole-job/): Explore how committing to build your organization's capacity and funding that commitment leads to greater excellence and impact.
- [Prioritize and Focus](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/course/prioritize-and-focus/): Learn how to set and stick to a small set of priorities, and how to work with your board to keep your organization on track.
- [Book It and Ship It: Course Module](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/course/book-it-and-ship-it/): Tackle one of the biggest leadership hurdles -- moving ideas into action. Learn when to act and how to manage the inevitable bumps in the road of implementation.
- [Who Owns the Monkey?](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/course/who-owns-the-monkey/): Build a culture of accountability and empowerment with a framework for holding accountability conversations and using structure and processes as foundations.

## Resource Pages

- [Start Here](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/start-here/): Canonical bundle landing path for the booklet, course, toolkits, videos, and podcast
- [Resources](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/resources/): Downloadable PDFs, worksheets, ZIP toolkits, audio, and related guides
- [Download](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/download/): Direct PDF and audiobook downloads
- [Newsletter](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/newsletter/): Weekly nonprofit leadership newsletter signup
- [Free Book](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/book-form/): Print, eBook, and audiobook request form
- [Videos](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/applied-wisdom-videos/): Applied Wisdom video library
- [Podcast](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/podcast-2/): Podcast and audio resources

## Categories

- [Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/category/culture/): 106 posts
- [Planning](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/category/planning/): 33 posts
- [Implementation](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/category/implementation/): 81 posts

## Blog Posts

### Culture (106 posts)

- [Applied Wisdom Comes to Chicago's West Side](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/applied-wisdom-comes-to-chicagos-west-side/): LaShone Kelly organized a half-day leadership workshop for fifteen high school students, demonstrating a novel application of Applied Wisdom principles.
- [From the Field to the Court: How Court Sense Shapes Great Leadership](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/from-the-field-to-the-court-how-court-sense-shapes-great-leadership/): Guest newsletter from colleague Jorge Titinger on how athletic instincts from the soccer field parallel the leadership principles behind Develop Court Sense.
- [Great Leaders are Not Born](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/great-leaders-are-not-born/): Leadership is a skill that can be developed. Every person is capable of improving their leadership and management abilities.
- [Great Leaders are Not Born](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/great-leaders-are-not-born-2/): These are challenging times for nonprofits, and across the social sector. During challenging times, strong leadership is essential. I plan to continue to make the topic of leadership a key focus of th
- [Atomic Habits and the Nonprofit Sector](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/atomic-habits-and-the-nonprofit-sector/): James Clear's Atomic Habits offers valuable insights for nonprofit leaders seeking to strengthen their management capabilities through small, consistent improvements.
- [Reflecting on International Women's Day in 2026](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/reflecting-on-international-womens-day-in-2026/): The theme of this year's International Women's Day was 'Give to Gain' — that could have been right out of the Applied Wisdom playbook.
- [Trust Is Built from the Inside Out](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/trust-is-built-from-the-inside-out/): Trust isn't something you declare. It's something you build. You can't earn trust externally if you haven't built it within your own organization first.
- [Absorb Chaos, Project Calm, Give Hope](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/absorb-chaos-project-calm-give-hope/): I don’t know who first used this phrase, but I think it is so valuable for the situation we now find ourselves in. Absorb Chaos, Project Calm, Give Hope. These are deeply unsettling times. Politics ha
- [Between Your Heart and Your Mind](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/between-your-heart-and-your-mind/): Nonprofit leaders tend to be idea people. They see problems and imagine solutions. They meet a potential partner and envision a collaboration. They attend a conference and return buzzing with all the
- [Uncover Driving Forces in 2026](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/uncover-driving-forces-2/): It’s been said that the one constant is change. A couple of weeks ago I talked about the cyclical environments that nonprofits work within. 2025 was a tough year for many nonprofits: How can we start
- [The Larger Goal of Doing Good](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-larger-goal-of-doing-good-3/): Financial success and independence are powerful motivators. But as we enter this season of reflection, I want to set a reminder that achieving professional success and pursuing the greater good aren't
- [Hire Excellent People](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hire-excellent-people-2/): An exceptional culture will always attract great employees. When I was getting my MBA at Cornell, business schools were not paying that much attention to the techniques of effective hiring. Fortunatel
- [Accountability vs. Victims](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/accountability-vs-victims-2/): When things aren’t going well there is a tendency for staff to personalize their anxiety and frustration and create “villains” and “victims.” This is an extremely important distinction and it’s not si
- [The Tone at the Top](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-tone-at-the-top/): Nonprofit boards have many responsibilities. Top among these is overseeing a healthy internal culture within the organization. While a board may have limited exposure to day-to-day operations, it need
- [Structure + Processes + People = Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/structure-processes-people-culture-3/): If you want to build a strong and productive culture, or you want to rebuild a failing culture, there are three elements that must be handled properly, and in order: Structure, Processes and People. T
- [How to Change a Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/how-to-change-a-culture/): When things are going well, it’s easy to take your organization’s culture for granted. When things aren’t going well, managers will often focus on some quality that they believe is deficient. They mig
- [Applied Wisdom in Action: Students Reflect on Organizational Leadership](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/applied-wisdom-in-action-students-reflect-on-organizational-leadership/): This post is from our Applied Wisdom team member, Kathleen King. Nonprofit executive Teresa Chapman teaches a course on Organizational Development and Change and has found a way to bring Applied Wisdo
- [Culture Matters](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/culture-matters/): Culture matters. It’s a core organizational asset for nonprofits. The role of leadership is to build a strong organizational culture based on a nonprofit’s purpose, mission, vision, and values. You wa
- [On Independence Day, Reflecting on the Statue of Liberty](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/on-independence-day-reflecting-on-the-statue-of-liberty/): At the end of June 1986, nearly 40 years ago, I sent a letter to the staff of Applied Materials, where I served as president. I’d like to quote from that letter. I think it still has relevance today,
- [Your Say/Do Ratio](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-say-do-ratio-3/): Readers of my newsletter and of my books know all too well that my cornerstone saying and belief is that respecting and trusting your people is the foundation of all good management. The character of
- [When It’s Time for Change, Don’t Start with the Staff](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-its-time-for-change-dont-start-with-the-staff-3/): When a nonprofit struggles it’s usually not because the staff are weak. It’s more likely the result of inadequate leadership and poor planning. Most employees are just as savvy as any management consu
- [Leaders Repeat and Reinforce](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leaders-repeat-and-reinforce/): When coaching nonprofit managers I consistently emphasize the same core management principles. This constant repetition is deliberate. If you’ve read Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector and follow
- [You are Never too Young to Lead](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/you-are-never-too-young-to-lead-2/): I’ve often noted that one of the most valuable experiences a young, ambitious person can have is to work for excellent managers. And the reverse can be equally true: one of the most valuable experienc
- [Mission Statements Reinforce Organizational Values](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mission-statements-reinforce-organizational-values-3/): Here are a few mission statements from prominent nonprofit organizations: The mission of the American Heart Association is “To advance the health of all individuals and communities.” Make a Wish Ameri
- [Diverse Boards Bring Diverse Perspectives](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/diverse-boards-bring-diverse-perspectives/): Successful boards are built on a core of experienced professionals who share your mission and bring unique skills, such as in planning, fundraising, and finance. Beyond that, the idea of having a set
- [Building Respect and Trust: Insights from our Interviews](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/building-respect-and-trust-insights-from-our-interviews/): I so often talk about respect and trust in my writing and my discussions with the nonprofit community. I’m always interested in how nonprofit leaders think about this core cultural value. In preparing
- [Focus on Your Local Community](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-your-local-community-3/): As we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday I'm reminded that nonprofits don’t serve just their constituents, but that they're also grounded in another commonwealth, their local community. At Applied Mat
- [My Return to Cayuga, Indiana](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/my-return-to-cayuga-indiana/): In late September my wife Becky and I were able to visit my hometown of Cayuga, Indiana, on our way back from a trip to the East Coast. It was my first time back in many years. Cayuga is just west of
- [Bringing My Team Into the Conversation](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/bringing-my-team-into-the-conversation/): Over the last 5-plus years I’ve been able to build a wonderful team that helps me every day to get the word out about Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits. I credit them by name in the booklet, including my
- [Eleven Simple Rules for Working with Others](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/eleven-simple-rules-for-working-with-others/): Most of my career in high tech and in the nonprofit sector has centered around Northern California, home, of course, to Apple, Google, Meta (Facebook), Nvidia, and to a company that doesn’t get talked
- [The Emotional Side of Leadership](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-emotional-side-of-leadership/): Respect and trust for your people is the foundation of all good management. Without those values, you will never be a successful manager. Respect and trust also has a strong emotional component. I’ve
- [Organizational Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/organizational-culture/): Nonprofit leadership must establish robust organizational cultures aligned with institutional purpose and values.
- [Accountability vs. Victims](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/accountability-vs-victims/): When things aren’t going well there is a tendency for staff to personalize their anxiety and frustration and create “villains” and “victims.” This illustration shows the difference between an organiza
- [First Assistant](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/first-assistant-3/): It’s useful to think of yourself as “first assistant to” your direct reports. You want people at every level to understand the organization’s goals and objectives and make decisions that align with th
- [You are Never too Young to Lead](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/you-are-never-too-young-to-lead/): I’ve often noted that one of the most valuable experiences a young, ambitious person can have is to work for excellent managers. And the reverse can be equally true: one of the most valuable experienc
- [Your Say/Do Ratio](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-say-do-ratio-2/): Regular readers of my newsletter and my books know that my cornerstone saying and belief is that respecting and trusting your people is the foundation of all good management. The character of your org
- [Transforming How DEI is Framed](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/transforming-how-dei-is-framed/): This week I saw an interesting post examining the evolving challenges facing Chief Diversity Officers (CDOs) as we enter February’s Black History Month. CDOs are encountering skepticism about the effe
- [DEI and Fundamental Management Practices](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dei-and-fundamental-management-practices/): Well-managed organizations foster diversity, equity and inclusion. It doesn’t have to be a part of a separate DEI effort: It can be most effective when it’s built into the management initiatives that
- [Revisiting DEI in Turbulent Times](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/revisiting-dei-in-turbulent-times/): Recent events have caused some people to question the value of DEI — diversity, equity and inclusion. My fundamental belief in the value of DEI to the nonprofit community has not wavered. DEI isn’t ju
- [The Larger Goal of Doing Good](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-larger-goal-of-doing-good-2/): Success and financial independence are tremendous motivators in life. But as we celebrate the holidays, I like to remind my friends and colleagues that you can do well and at the same time pursue the
- [Number One or Two—Or Not at All](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/number-one-or-two-or-not-at-all-2/): Experienced leaders understand that if an organization cannot be number one or two in its “market” then it should evolve elsewhere. A nonprofit should be one of the leading organizations in its define
- [Mission Statements Reinforce Organizational Values](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mission-statements-reinforce-organizational-values-2/): Sometimes people roll their eyes at mission statements and strategic rollout events with slogans and banners. It’s possible to overdo it, but it’s also important to reinforce and repeat fundamental or
- [Focus on Your Local Community](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-your-local-community-2/): With Thanksgiving less than a week away I’m thinking about community, the community that your nonprofit serves, and also the community within your organization. At Applied Materials we were pioneers i
- [Nonprofits and the Business World](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-business-world-2/): I once heard someone say that business executives on nonprofit boards too often leave their brains at the door. It’s unfortunate that some businesspeople who get involved with nonprofits can be impati
- [Nonprofit Boards and Bad News](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-boards-and-bad-news-2/): Some chief executives use board sessions to do a lot of cheerleading and pointing to all the accomplishments they’ve presided over at their nonprofit. Since the chief executive serves at the pleasure
- [Structure + Processes + People = Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/structure-processes-people-culture-2/): Support for diversity, equity and inclusion, based on the values of mutual trust and respect, is at the core of a strong and productive organizational culture. This strong and productive culture is, i
- [Managers Must Address Their Shortcomings](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/managers-must-address-their-shortcomings-2/): It is human nature to emphasize what we do well and ignore or put off working on what does not come as naturally. A good manager must fight that instinct, understand what key leadership or management
- [Excellent Managers are not Born](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/excellent-managers-are-not-born-2/): Some people think that nonprofit leaders are anomalies, special people born with the skills and talents that evade the grasp of the rest of us. But excellent managers are not born. They develop by lea
- [Work For the Best Managers You Can](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/work-for-the-best-managers-you-can-2/): Throughout my career I was fortunate to be guided by strong leaders and managers, when I worked on the family farm and in the cannery, while in the army, and throughout my business career. I’ve also w
- [Develop a Listening Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/develop-a-listening-culture/): Careful listening has always been at the core of my approach to managing people, whatever the size or scale of the organization. At Applied Materials, our “listening culture” began to develop organica
- [Inspired by Nonprofit Leaders](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/inspired-by-nonprofit-leaders/): In creating our Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector online course, three local nonprofit leaders shared some of their unique management experiences. I was particularly inspired by things that each
- [Start With Your Conclusions](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/start-with-your-conclusions-2/): When you’re trying to communicate something important to a group, begin at the end, by stating your conclusions and recommendations. Then get into the whys and the supporting data. People will focus b
- [Organizational Culture Should Support Diversity, Equity and Inclusion](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/organizational-culture-should-support-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/): Readers of Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector have pointed out to me that many of the principles outlined in the booklet can support organizations striving to be more diverse, equitable and inclu
- [Respect & Trust is at the Heart of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/respect-amp-trust-is-at-the-heart-of-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/): When I think more deeply about diversity, equity and inclusion, I’m reminded of one of my core beliefs, which is to build your organizational culture around the principles of mutual trust and respect.
- [My Early Experience with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/my-early-experience-with-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/): The writer and comedian Alexandria Love writes with insight about diversity, equity and inclusion. She points out that while many people believe that “diversity” and “inclusion” are the same, there is
- [First Assistant](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/first-assistant-2/): It’s useful to think of yourself as “first assistant to” your direct reports. You want people at every level to understand the organization’s goals and objectives and make decisions that align with th
- [The “Let’s Do” Attitude](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-lets-do-attitude-2/): Everyone running an organization, a department, or a team must accept responsibility for also managing less-glamorous duties, such as the implementation of strategy through planning, budgeting, organi
- [Participating on Nonprofit Boards](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/participating-on-nonprofit-boards-2/): A board’s responsibility includes the oversight of a healthy internal culture. When board members behave courteously and respectfully toward each other and towards management, they set an example for
- [Your Say/Do Ratio](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-say-do-ratio/): Regular readers of my newsletter and books know that my cornerstone saying and belief is that respecting and trusting your people is the foundation of all good management. The character of your organi
- [Asking Simple Questions](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/asking-simple-questions/): I collect newsletters and newspaper articles that suggest ideas for my upcoming newsletters. One clipping I just uncovered is from an article that David Brooks wrote in the New York Times a couple of
- [Less is the Key to Success](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/less-is-the-key-to-success/): Robert I. Sutton, a professor of management science and engineering at Stanford University published a recent article in the Wall Street Journal titled “Why Bosses Should Ask Employees to Do Less—Not
- [When It’s Time for Change, Don’t Start with the Staff](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-its-time-for-change-dont-start-with-the-staff/): When a nonprofit struggles it’s usually not because the staff are weak. It’s more likely the result of inadequate leadership and poor planning. Most employees are just as savvy as any management consu
- [A Humble Approach to Giving](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-humble-approach-to-giving-2/): With the holiday season upon us, a time of joy and of sharing, this newsletter is specifically about donorship. It’s at this time of the year that I often reflect on the enormous efforts and the treme
- [Great Leaders](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/great-leaders/): Our society has promoted the idea that the great leader is special, perhaps born to lead, or requires the highest levels of academic training. Business books and magazines often focus on dramatic exam
- [Shared Experience](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/shared-experience/): With Thanksgiving less than a week away I’m thinking about community, the community that your nonprofit serves, but also the community within your organization. The Covid crisis isolated board members
- [Mission Statements Reinforce Organizational Values](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mission-statements-reinforce-organizational-values/): Here are a few mission statements from prominent nonprofit organizations: The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Make a Wish America: Toge
- [Interacting](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/interacting/): Everywhere I worked I enjoyed interacting with people, whether they were ranked well above me or they performed entry level jobs. I have no tolerance for anyone who lords their position or power over
- [Sometimes a Decision is a Good Decision — Until it’s no Longer a Good Decision](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/sometimes-a-decision-is-a-good-decision-until-its-no-longer-a-good-decision/): With shifting social and economic cycles, things happen unexpectedly that can help or hurt an organization. I’ve talked in the past about “facing the elevator door,” as a way of thinking about opportu
- [Developing Managers](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/developing-managers/): As your nonprofit grows, the demands within your sector and the dynamics of the larger world change and you have to stay on top of that. You’re never “done” putting organizational processes in place,
- [Nonprofits and the Business World](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-business-world/): I once heard someone say about business executives on nonprofit boards that they often leave their brains at the door. It’s unfortunate that sometimes impatient business people get involved with nonpr
- [Cultural Course Correction](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/cultural-course-correction/): Last week I looked at how to develop a strong organizational culture which includes support for DEI, grounded in mutual trust and respect. That culture is built on structure, processes and people. Thi
- [Structure + Processes + People = Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/structure-processes-people-culture/): Support for DEI, based on the values of mutual trust and respect, is part of a strong and productive organizational culture. This strong and productive culture is, in turn, the result of three element
- [Decisions Create Momentum](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/decisions-create-momentum/): A decision accomplishes nothing except creating momentum in a particular direction. Deciding to get married, for example, does not create a long and happy marriage — it just sets the possibility in mo
- [Diverse Boards Provide Diverse Perspectives](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/diverse-boards-provide-diverse-perspectives/): When it comes to boards, the idea of having a diverse set of people with varied backgrounds is a good one. When you’re only talking with people who know exactly what you know, and whom you value becau
- [DEI is Driven by Fundamental Management Principles](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dei-is-driven-by-fundamental-management-principles/): Diversity, equity and inclusion are, rightly, much on leaders’ minds and in the press these days. It is concerning to me, though, that many people are treating DEI as though it is its own discipline.
- [Talented, Motivated People](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/talented-motivated-people/): I always stress that a culture of respect and trust begins with a commitment to hiring excellent people, people who can own their work, both its successes and failures. Talented, motivated people will
- [Porpoising for Insights](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/porpoising-for-insights/): You can learn about what’s really going on within your organization by “porpoising.” Think about a porpoise, repeatedly diving deep into the ocean and then rising to the surface, gathering information
- [Paradoxes](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/paradoxes/): The business world is full of contradictions. Today’s most effective companies must be both global and local. Product development must be fast and also low-defect. Companies must attain critical mass
- [The "Average Employee" Gets It](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-average-employee-gets-it/): It’s essential to create a culture of accountability where highly trained, skilled employees are supported and encouraged to speak up when they see or hear a problem developing. Insulated leaders some
- [Teamwork](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/teamwork/): There are some people who value success but don’t care whether they receive praise or validation from others. They can work fine on a team led by an ambitious extrovert. But multiple ambitious extrove
- [Start With Your Conclusions](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/start-with-your-conclusions/): When you’re trying to communicate something important to a group, begin at the end, by stating your conclusions and recommendations. Then get into the whys and the supporting data. People will focus b
- [Make Decisions at Meetings](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/make-decisions-at-meetings/): Make sure no one leaves a meeting without making decisions on every recommendation. If there’s still concern or confusion, schedule a second meeting as soon as possible and hash over the remaining pro
- [Work For the Best Managers You Can](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/work-for-the-best-managers-you-can/): Throughout my career I was fortunate to be tutored by strong leaders and managers, when I worked on the family farm and in the cannery, in the army, and throughout my business career. Nothing beats wo
- [Excellent Managers are not Born](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/excellent-managers-are-not-born/): Some people think that leaders are anomalies, special people born with the skills and talents that evade the grasp of the rest of us. But excellent managers are not born. They develop by learning: lea
- [All Worthwhile Enterprises are Human Systems](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/all-worthwhile-enterprises-are-human-systems/): Merging the management of human systems with a complex world is crucial. The details change, the motivating forces may cycle, and the tools that we give to our employees may get dramatic upgrades. But
- [Develop Your Own Management Toolkit](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/management-toolkit/): I have always encouraged people to develop their own management toolkit or set of guiding principles. For many years I collected articles, lists, notes, and ideas I picked up reading, listening to spe
- [Offsite Meetings](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/offsite-meetings/): As staff begin to return to the office it’s time to revisit your organization’s culture. Your teams have been working remotely for two years or more. How do you rebuild camaraderie and teamwork after
- [Hire Excellent People](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hire-excellent-people/): A culture of respect and trust begins with a commitment to hiring excellent people. Most things my team did, they did better than I could have. Little time was spent cleaning up after anybody or rever
- [First Assistant](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/first-assistant/): It’s useful to think of yourself as “first assistant to” your direct reports. You want people at every level to understand the organization’s goals and objectives and make decisions that align with th
- [Participating on Nonprofit Boards](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/participating-on-nonprofit-boards/): The other day I heard from the president of a local nonprofit. She shared with me what she has found are the keys to being a successful contributor to a nonprofit board. Here is her list: Always be on
- [Treating People With Respect](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/treating-people-with-respect/): Respect and trust your people This is the foundation of all good management. Without it, you will never be a successful manager. A key element of respect is modeling every behavior you expect in your
- [The Larger Goal of Doing Good](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-larger-goal-of-doing-good/): Success and financial independence are tremendous motivators in life. But as we celebrate the holidays, I like to remind my friends and colleagues that you can do well and at the same time pursue the
- [Tone at the Top](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/tone-at-the-top-2/): A board’s responsibility — whether at a nonprofit or a for-profit company — includes overseeing a healthy internal culture. While your board may have limited exposure to your establishment’s day-to-da
- [Focus on Your Local Community](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-your-local-community/): At Applied Materials we were pioneers in recognizing the importance of companies paying attention to the communities in which they operate. We always kept a local focus and made sure we acknowledged o
- [Leadership vs. Management](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leadership-vs-management/): Books on corporate success often focus on leadership. Others focus solely on management. But effectively running an organization demands both leadership and management. They are closely aligned, but t
- [Bad News is Good News Revisited](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/bad-news-is-good-news-revisited/): Last week I shared the idea that bad news can be good news within your organization. Let’s look more closely at what that means. My full saying (my Morganism) is: Good news is no news. No news is bad
- [Bad News is Good News if You Do Something About It](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/bad-news-is-good-news-ii/): Nonprofits are in the business of tackling tough challenges — addressing poverty, improving education, and protecting the planet. The passionate, smart, and good-hearted people who work in the sector
- [The Rule of Three For Hiring](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-rule-of-three-for-hiring/): When I worked in business management I developed a “Rule of Three” for success in hiring new staff. I’ve found that it’s just as effective for nonprofits. Here’s how it works…. It should be a priority
- [A Values-Based Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-values-based-culture/): The role of leadership is to build a strong organizational culture based on a nonprofit’s mission, vision, and values. An exceptional culture will attract great employees and volunteers, board members
- [Some Thoughts on Decision-Making](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/some-thoughts-on-decision-making/): A strong leader delegates decision-making authority for a project to the lowest practicable level within an organization. This is the value of hierarchy and decentralized decision-making. You set the
- [Manage Your Shortcomings](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/manage-your-shortcomings/): It’s human nature to focus on what we do well and then to ignore or postpone working on what does not come as naturally. A good manager must fight that instinct, understand what key leadership or mana
- [Create Accountability, Not Victims](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/create-accountability-not-victims/): As individuals and organizations transition to a New Normal, many of us are wondering what our culture will be or what it should be. Effective decision making is core for every organization. Throughou
- [Focus Rest & Refresh](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-rest-refresh/): This will be my final newsletter for the year. And what a year it has been! Covid has dominated our lives for all but a few weeks in 2020. Concurrently we’ve faced major economic and racial justice is
- [Giving Thanks](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/giving-thanks/): This is surely the most challenging year that nonprofits have faced in a generation, forced to struggle with the chaos of Covid-19 during a time of great political turmoil. But in the midst of these m
- [Collaboration Mindset](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/collaboration-mindset/): Collaboration mindset. Consider, for a moment, just that one word. Collaboration. I have long encouraged nonprofits to collaborate, but collaboration has never been more important, even urgent, than i
- [A Crisis of Culture](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-crisis-of-culture/): Last month I talked about COVID, leadership and culture. COVID remains a massive crisis. As I write this, there were over 50,000 new cases in the U.S. recorded yesterday, with more than 128,000 dead.

### Planning (33 posts)

- [Never Stop Collecting Great Tips and Quotations](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/never-stop-collecting-great-tips-and-quotations/): I continually collect articles, lists, notes, and ideas I pick up from reading, listening to speakers, or just talking with people each day. I urge everyone to do that as a habit. We evolve over our l
- [A Thoughtful Management Model for Nonprofits](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-thoughtful-management-model-for-nonprofits/): When I worked at Applied Materials we hired a management consultant named Dr. Ichak Adizes. The author of nearly 30 books, Adizes is an original, full of insights on organizational development and lif
- [Nonprofits Live in a Cyclical Environment](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-live-in-a-cyclical-environment/): As we approach year-end, the end of ​a​ particularly brutal ​12-months, I’m reminded of the ever-evolving cycles that all organizations face. Just like for-profits, nonprofits live in cyclical environ
- [A Humble Approach to Giving](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-humble-approach-to-giving-3/): Next Thursday we will celebrate Thanksgiving in the United States, and it prompts me to think more about giving. I’ve been deeply engaged in philanthropy for more than three decades. Friends and colle
- [The Gig Economy: Helping Nonprofits Do the Whole Job](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/helping-nonprofits-do-the-whole-job/): Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we've seen significant growth in the gig economy. It's having a major impact on how American businesses operate. The gig economy can be beneficial for both parties. Compan
- [Court Sense and the Changing Seasons](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/court-sense-and-the-changing-seasons/): Just as seasons change, nonprofit leaders must develop the court sense to anticipate shifts and adapt their strategies accordingly.
- [Don’t Be Afraid to Have a Plan B](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dont-be-afraid-to-have-a-plan-b/): I like to remind people of what I call “The Cost of Perfect Information.” Time is wasted and opportunities are lost when people become fixated on having perfect information, rather than appreciating t
- [When Collaborating, Look for Complementary Strengths](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-collaborating-look-for-complementary-strengths/): I want to continue on the theme of collaboration. Last week I looked at the importance of helping partners succeed. But how do you choose an organization to collaborate with? Collaborations work best
- [Nonprofits and the Uncertainty of Government Funding](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-uncertainty-of-government-funding/): The recent pause on federal grants by the Trump administration was a shock to the nonprofit sector. The incident put a spotlight on how important federal funding is to nonprofits, and how ill-equipped
- [The Bridges Model of Change](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-bridges-model-of-change/): This week’s election was emotionally challenging for everyone, no matter which candidates or positions you were supporting. The outcome for some has been positive. For others it has been unsettling, i
- [Decisions Create Momentum](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/decisions-create-momentum-3/): A decision accomplishes nothing except creating momentum in a particular direction. Deciding to get married, for example, does not create a long and happy marriage — it just sets the possibility in mo
- [The Rule of Three For Planning](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-rule-of-three-for-planning/): I recently read an article about Jim Collins’ advice to managers. Collins is the author of several management books, including “Good to Great and the Social Sectors.” One of his sayings is, “If you ha
- [When Collaborating, Look for Complementary Strengths](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-collaborating-look-for-complementary-strength/): I want to continue on the theme of collaboration. Last week I looked at the importance of helping partners succeed. But how do you choose an organization to collaborate with? Collaborations work best
- [Don’t Be Afraid to Have a Plan B](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dont-be-afraid-to-have-a-plan-b-2/): A few weeks ago I talked about driving forces, sources of change that every organization must align with or risk being run over by. Detecting driving forces requires “court sense” — you need to simult
- [Succession Issues](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/succession-issues-2/): At the start of a new year, a time of change, I think about how organizations can best tackle leadership transitions. When it is time for a top executive to leave, succession issues become pervasive w
- [Nonprofits Live in Cyclical Environments](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-live-in-cyclical-environments/): Nonprofits live in cyclical environments. Their fortunes are often pegged to business growth and strong stock markets, which put cash in their donors’ pockets. When revenues are strong, it’s important
- [Diverse Boards Provide Diverse Perspectives](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/diverse-boards-provide-diverse-perspectives-2/): When it comes to boards, the idea of having a diverse set of people with varied backgrounds is a good one. When you’re only talking with people who know exactly what you know, and whom you value becau
- [Talk About Management When You’re Still Small](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/talk-about-management-when-youre-still-small/): I have never believed that the skills required to successfully manage an organization are reserved for a special or chosen few. What is often lacking is merely some simple, straightforward insights an
- [A New Year's Resolution](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-new-years-resolution/): As we approach our New Year’s celebrations, I’d like to suggest to you that an excellent New Year pledge is to improving your organization’s management capabilities. It starts with you! I expect that
- [Nonprofit Boards and Bad News](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-boards-and-bad-news/): Some chief executives use board sessions to do a lot of cheerleading and pointing to all the accomplishments they’ve presided over. Since the chief executive serves at the pleasure of the board, it’s
- [Number One or Two—Or Not at All](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/number-one-or-two-or-not-at-all/): Experienced strategic managers learn that if an organization cannot be number one or two in its “market” then it should evolve elsewhere. Below that level is a difficult place to sit. I call organizat
- [Succession Issues](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/succession-issues/): When it is time for a CEO to leave, succession issues become pervasive within a nonprofit. The process of grooming possible successors can be divisive, often creating a distraction. Senior staff tend
- [Shrink the Problem](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/shrink-the-problem/): Nonprofits are founded to tackle tough issues and to solve challenging problems. But sometimes a problem is too large to be tackled head on, and a nonprofit can freeze up, uncertain of how it can be m
- [Nonprofits Can Be Ruthlessly Competitive](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-can-be-ruthlessly-competitive/): Nonprofits can be ruthlessly competitive and wary of one another. One reason is that nonprofits are constantly fundraising, and all the organizations in a given space tend to target the same donors or
- [Uncover Driving Forces](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/uncover-driving-forces/): It’s been said that the one constant is change. Change creates opportunity. In every opportunity and in every decision, there are driving forces that you need to consider. For example, the rapid sprea
- [Building Nonprofit Boards](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/building-nonprofit-boards/): Effective boards can be a great resource for nonprofits. But even very skilled businesspeople often fail to invest much time in structural issues at nonprofits. These nonprofit boards can end up fille
- [Achieving Goals Doesn't Make Things Easier](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/achieving-goals/): It’s human nature to aim for a goal and then assume when you get there life will be easier. In business and in nonprofits, people have a tendency to think that if they just reach some magic size or hi
- [Develop Court Sense](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/develop-court-sense-post/): I’ve always liked basketball because it is an intense and fluid game. There’s no standing around waiting for a pitch or lining up and waiting for a snap. While you have a game plan, you have to adjust
- [A Humble Approach to Giving](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-humble-approach-to-giving/): I’ve been deeply engaged in philanthropy for more than two decades. Friends and colleagues often ask me how I assess the effectiveness of a nonprofit. I share with them that I have the highest regard
- [Book It and Ship It](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/book-it-and-ship-it-2/): Last week I looked at the cost of perfect information. Most people over-analyze challenges and opportunities, trying to uncover the “perfect” information that they think will reveal the best choice. I
- [The Cost of Perfect Information](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-cost-of-perfect-information/): I’ve talked before about the importance of making timely decisions. Of course, making good decisions, timed right, is a tough challenge for every manager. But most people over-analyze opportunities, t
- [Planning for Possibilities](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/planning-for-possibilities/): It's 2021 and we need to understand why planning for possibilities is important. What a difference a month makes! After too long in darkness, we’ve seen movement (despite some setbacks) in deploying C
- [Planning and the November Election](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/planning-and-the-november-election/): You don’t often hear the term “court sense” when discussing the leadership of nonprofits. The term comes from basketball, describing the ability of a player to see what’s developing on the court, at a

### Implementation (81 posts)

- [Managing in Turbulent Times](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/managing-in-turbulent-times/): During these times of turbulence and uncertainty in Washington, and around the world, nonprofit leaders and nonprofit staff can feel buffeted by forces beyond their control.
- [Mentors](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mentors-2/): People often ask me about my mentors. I didn’t have a single mentor — I believe it’s not practical to attach yourself to just one role model or manager.
- [When People Look Outward, Look Inward](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-people-look-outward-look-inward/): When I saw younger employees focused on building their resumés, my reaction was not to worry that they might be thinking of finding work elsewhere.
- [The Urge to Show Results](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-urge-to-show-results/): Sometimes, when a leader steps into a new role, they feel pressure to demonstrate that their work is making a tangible difference.
- [When Everything Is a Priority, Nothing Is a Priority](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-everything-is-a-priority-nothing-is-a-priority/): The problem is rarely a shortage of good ideas. It's more likely a shortage of discipline about which ideas to pursue.
- [Ancestral Land Returned... After 175 Years!](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ancestral-land-returned-after-175-years/): Last month, the Washoe Tribe purchased over 10,000 acres of ancestral land north of Lake Tahoe, California. It’s land they were pushed off during the California Gold Rush, 175 years ago. Now it’s thei
- [Practical Hiring Tips for Nonprofits](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/practical-hiring-tips-for-nonprofits/): We’ve been partnering with the Miller Center for nearly a year now, focusing on enhancing leadership development programming for social entrepreneurs addressing critical global challenges. Linda Keega
- [Volunteers and the Nonprofit "Job to be Done"](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/volunteers-and-the-nonprofit-job-to-be-done/): Let’s talk about an important group that we too often overlook in our discussions of nonprofits: our volunteers. Famed management guru Clayton Christensen has a thesis that can help us appreciate volu
- [Understanding Your True Impact](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/understanding-your-true-impact/): Best intentions and a strong sense of purpose drive the nonprofit sector. But neither will tell you whether you’re actually making a difference. Too many organizations measure activity—how many meals
- [Fundraising for Small Nonprofits](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-for-small-nonprofits/): I’ve written before about my friend Hank Riggs. Hank oversaw all fundraising efforts at Stanford University and was enormously successful with his efforts. I’ve shared a list of eighteen of Hank’s “fu
- [5 Ways to Be a Better Leader in 2026](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/5-ways-to-be-a-better-leader-in-2026/): After decades of leading organizations both large and small, I’ve found that some of my most powerful management insights aren’t the ones that are most often quoted. As you think about strengthening y
- [A New Year is Full of Opportunity](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-new-year-is-full-of-opportunity/): With the new year just behind us, it’s a good time to focus on opportunity. A nonprofit leader establishes opportunity for their organization by pointing it in the right direction and hiring the peopl
- [Reduce Stress by Focusing on Top Priorities](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/reduce-stress-by-focusing-on-top-priorities/): I want to continue this week to talk about coping with stress at nonprofits. There are few things more stressful than having a dozen to-dos on your desk, and three staff members outside your door look
- [Coping with Stress at Year-end](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/coping-with-stress-at-year-end/): This has been the most stressful year for nonprofits since the Covid crisis. The current social and political environment makes burnout more of a concern than perhaps ever before. Everyone is searchin
- [Hiring and the Two Negatives](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hiring-and-the-two-negatives-2/): Last week I talked about how important it is to hire excellent people, people who can own their work, both its successes and failures. I’ve got a tip about how to make great hires. In addition to the
- [CEOs at For-Profits and CEOs at Nonprofits](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ceos-at-for-profits-and-ceos-at-nonprofits/): It’s unfortunate that sometimes impatient business people get involved with nonprofits and immediately bark out a list of ways nonprofits need to be “run more like a business.” I have too much respect
- [Hubs and Spokes](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hubs-and-spokes-2/): I’ve been thinking a lot about the challenges of decentralized decision-making. Here’s one aspect. Most start-up organizations, including new nonprofits, resemble a wheel with a hub (the founders and
- [Who's Got the Monkey?](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/who-owns-the-monkey-2/): Last week I considered the difference between an organizational culture characterized by accountability, versus one characterized by a victim mindset. In an accountable culture, employees are comforta
- [Getting the Dailies](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/getting-the-dailies/): Many unproductive attitudes can infect a company that does not pay close attention to its culture and values, both daily, and for the long term. I’ve always made a point of challenging staff to connec
- [Your Partner's Success](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-partners-success-2/): When you are engaged in an effort that demands collaboration, you must treat your partner’s issues as paramount and do everything you can to resolve friction and help your partner succeed. You cannot
- [Nonprofit Collaboration — A Success Story](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-collaboration-a-success-story/): The Sierra Nevada is the longest, unbroken mountain range in North America, a 400-mile-long expanse of granite peaks, deep forests, and sparkling lakes. Last weekend my wife Becky and I had the pleasu
- [Collaborate Successfully](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/collaborate-successfully-2/): When I review my proudest achievements, both in business and in the nonprofit sector, collaboration with partners was almost always part of a successful outcome. A lot of senior executives talk about
- [Problem-Solving and the “Let’s Do” Attitude](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude-4/): The never-ending dysfunction in Washington highlights the importance of effective problem-solving. Nonprofits are constantly faced with making difficult decisions toward solving a range of problems. H
- [Ask Simple Questions](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ask-simple-questions-2/): Continuing on the theme of staffing from my previous newsletter, I want to share some insights prompted by an article that David Brooks wrote in the New York Times a few years ago titled “Nine Nonobvi
- [Fundraising Truisms](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-truisms/): Two weeks ago I talked about how Washington has added uncertainty to nonprofit fundraising in an already challenging environment. This week I’d like to share some fundraising insights and advice from
- [Partnering for Greater Social Impact](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/partnering-for-greater-social-impact/): Today, I’m happy to share that Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits is partnering with Santa Clara University’s Miller Center for Global Impact. This three-year partnership will focus on enhancing leadership
- [Fundraising is an Ever-Growing Challenge](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-is-an-ever-growing-challenge/): In my March 9 newsletter I talked about how the uncertainty of government funding is affecting nonprofits. Fundraising is already an everyday priority. And then, with all of the turmoil in Washington,
- [Clear Direction is a Service](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/clear-direction-is-a-service/): Guest newsletter by Leslie Hansen, Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits In last week's newsletter Jim Morgan discussed how messages about organizational values, strategic priorities, and your confidence in y
- [The Crisis at American Universities](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-crisis-at-american-universities/): I have been reflecting on the recent funding cuts to universities by the Trump administration, including $1 billion for Cornell University, $790 million for Northwestern University, and $9 billion for
- [Leadership vs. Management](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leadership-vs-management-3/): Two weeks ago I considered one of the long-standing myths of leadership, that “leaders are born, not made.” As I wrote, I believe that for most people it’s well within our grasp to learn how to lead a
- [Focus on Greatness: Insights from Jim Collins](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-greatness-insights-from-jim-collins/): Jim Collins, who wrote the influential business book Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don’t, also published a short booklet specifically about the nonprofits and the socia
- [Do You Wander Off?](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/do-you-wander-off/): Guest newsletter by Leslie Hansen, Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits The top management team of a large organization attended leadership training in which participants worked with horses in some intense a
- [The Fruits of Collaboration](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-fruits-of-collaboration/): When I first began collecting and sharing leadership tips, I never imagined the reach they might have. This month, a free online certificate course based on my booklet, Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofi
- [Nonprofits and the Los Angeles Fires](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-los-angeles-fires/): As fires once again ravage the Los Angeles area, I’m grateful to recognize the important role that nonprofit organizations are playing in helping with the immediate disaster, as well as their commitme
- [Teaching with Applied Wisdom](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/teaching-with-applied-wisdom/): A member of my team noticed that we had received multiple orders for Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector from a university address and took the initiative to learn more and to see if we could assi
- [5 Ways to Be a Better Leader in 2025](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/5-ways-to-be-a-better-leader-in-2025/): After decades of leading organizations both large and small, I’ve found that some of my most powerful management insights aren’t the ones that are most often quoted. As you think about strengthening y
- [The “Let’s Do” Attitude](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-lets-do-attitude-3/): When your focus is mainly on solving problems, it shapes your attitude toward new ideas and how to put them to work. You want to go beyond pondering problems to imagining solutions. It’s not just a “c
- [Artificial Intelligence and the Nonprofit Community](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/artificial-intelligence-and-the-nonprofit-community/): In Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits I describe an important leadership practice that I call “Court Sense” — watching for and responding to changes in the driving forces that might impact you and your org
- [Young Leaders Describe Their Leadership Tips](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/young-leaders-describe-their-leadership-tips/): I hope that you had a fine Thanksgiving break. I work with our team at Applied Wisdom in supporting and equipping nonprofit leaders and managers. We encourage them to reflect on their own leadership w
- [Shrink the Problem](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/shrink-the-problem-2/): Nonprofits are founded to tackle tough issues and to solve challenging problems. But sometimes a problem is too large to be tackled head on, and a nonprofit can freeze up, uncertain of how they can be
- [Where Strategy Meets Action](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/strategy-action/): Implementation is partly about an attitude: Just do it. It’s when strategy meets a bias toward action and thoughtful completion. People tend to get comfortable with process and reports. The great valu
- [Which Do You Want To Hear First?](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/which-do-you-want-to-hear-first/): My regular readers know that I’m a fan of bad news. At first this sounds surprising and counter-intuitive. But I’ve learned over my career that good news often has limited value — the goal has already
- [5-10% for Planning](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/5-10-for-planning/): Last week I reminded readers that, with summer drawing to a close, we’re moving into the fall planning cycle. Making time to plan and confer creates a useful rhythm and a routine. I think of planning
- [The Rule of Three for Hiring](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/rule-of-3/): Last week I looked at my “Rule of Three” for planning. I also have a rule of three for success in bringing on new staff. Staffing is a challenge for every organization. Relentless competition with the
- [Collaborate Successfully](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/collaborate-successfully/): When I review my proudest achievements, both in business and in the nonprofit sector, collaboration with partners was almost always part of a successful outcome. A lot of senior executives talk about
- [Teamwork](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/teamwork-2/): There are some people who value success but don’t care whether they receive praise or validation from others. They can work fine on a team led by an ambitious extrovert. But multiple ambitious extrove
- [Good News, Bad News — and Decentralized Decision-Making](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/good-news-bad-news-and-decentralized-decision-making/): We had a saying at Applied Materials that became well-known both inside and outside the company. Good news is no news.No news is bad news.And bad news is good news—if you do something about it. Of cou
- [Problem-Solving and the “Let’s Do” Attitude](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude-3/): The ongoing dysfunction in Washington in both the House and the Senate highlights the importance of effective problem-solving. Nonprofits are constantly faced with making difficult decisions toward so
- [Ask Simple Questions](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ask-simple-questions/): Continuing on the theme of staffing from the last two newsletters, I want to share some insights prompted by an article that David Brooks wrote in the New York Times a few years ago titled “Nine Nonob
- [When It’s Time for Change, Don’t Start with the Staff](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-its-time-for-change-dont-start-with-the-staff-2/): I talked recently about the hiring challenges that nonprofits face, and shared a tip for finding new prospects to join your team. Let’s look at staffing from another angle. When a nonprofit struggles
- [The Art, and the Logic, of Fundraising](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-art-and-the-logic-of-fundraising/): A couple of weeks ago I looked at how nonprofit fundraising has become more difficult over the last several years, particularly since Covid. This week I’d like to share some fundraising insights and a
- [Fundraising is a Growing Challenge](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-is-a-growing-challenge/): I have been hearing from several nonprofit leaders that fundraising has become more difficult since Covid. The nonprofit sector continues to face a shortage of experienced fundraisers, especially dive
- [The Dailies](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-dailies-2/): Many unproductive attitudes can infect a company that does not pay close attention to its culture and values, both daily, and for the long term. I’ve always made a point of challenging staff to connec
- [Join the Applied Wisdom Insights for Leadership Online Workshop](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/join-the-applied-wisdom-insights-for-leadership-online-workshop/): The Center for Excellence in Nonprofits (CEN) is offering its third online workshop based on my Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector, on March 6, from 9 am – 11 am PST. CEN is a 30-year-old nonprof
- [Problem-Solving and the “Let’s Do” Attitude](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude-2/): 2023 wasn’t an easy year for nonprofits; it wasn’t an easy year for the world. And 2024 is off to a rocky start. In the midst of uncertainty, I often turn my attention to solving immediate problems, t
- [Communicate the Value of Training](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/communicate-the-value-of-training/): I’m grateful to see that our new online course is proving popular both with readers of the Applied Wisdom booklet and with the newcomers to our website. I think that it’s essential to educate and supp
- [Join the Applied Wisdom Insights for Leadership Workshop](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/an-online-opportunity-to-join-the-applied-wisdom-insights-for-leadership-workshop/): The Center for Excellence in Nonprofits (CEN) is offering its second 2-hour online workshop based on my Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector, on November 14th. CEN is a 30-year-old nonprofit, based
- [Building Nonprofit Boards](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/building-nonprofit-boards-2/): Effective boards can be a great resource for nonprofits. But even very skilled businesspeople often fail to invest much time in structural issues at nonprofits. These nonprofit boards can end up fille
- [The Plate Spinner](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-plate-spinner/): When I was at Applied Materials we adopted an analogy for the tough job of being a manager. We called them “plate-spinners.” A plate-spinner is an old county fair act where the entertainer starts plat
- [Developing Managers](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/developing-managers-2/): As your nonprofit grows, the demands within your sector and the dynamics of the larger world change and you have to stay on top of that. You’re never “done” putting organizational processes in place,
- [All Worthwhile Enterprises are Human Systems](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/all-worthwhile-enterprises-are-human-systems-2/): At the end of the day no matter how impressive and far-reaching certain systems become, all worthwhile enterprises seeking success are human systems that require leadership and management. The basic n
- [Coming Soon: The Applied Wisdom Insights for Leadership Workshop](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/coming-soon-the-applied-wisdom-insights-for-leadership-workshop/): The Center for Excellence in Nonprofits (CEN) is offering a 2-hour online workshop based on my Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector, on August 24th. CEN is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, based
- [Make Decisions at Meetings](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/make-decisions-at-meetings-2/): Last week I talked about group communication and about presentations. Let’s consider meetings more broadly: Make sure no one leaves a meeting without making decisions on every recommendation. If there
- [Develop Your Own Management Toolkit](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/develop-your-own-management-toolkit/): For many years I’ve collected articles, lists, notes, and ideas that I picked up reading, listening to speakers, or just talking with people. These became the foundation for the many Morganisms that I
- [Creating the Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector Online Course](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/creating-the-applied-wisdom-for-the-nonprofit-sector-online-course/): I’ve asked Leslie Hansen, who was instrumental in creating the new online Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector Online Course, to share with my readers the story of how the course was born. Last yea
- [Announcing the New Applied Wisdom Online Course](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/announcing-the-new-applied-wisdom-online-course/): The most frequent request I get from readers of Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector is “more.” How can I learn more? How can I increase my understanding of the principles in the book? How can I sh
- [Leadership vs. Management](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leadership-vs-management-2/): Books on organizational success often focus on leadership. Others seem to focus solely on management. But effectively running an organization demands both leadership and management. They are closely a
- [18 Fundraising Truisms](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/18-fundraising-truisms/): My friend Henry E. (Hank) Riggs worked in Silicon Valley in the 1960s, and then, in 1974, became a professor of engineering at Stanford University. In 1983, Hank took on the challenge of overseeing al
- [Decisions Create Momentum](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/decisions-create-momentum-2/): I’ve talked before about the cost of perfect information. People who become overly focused on obtaining perfect information before making decisions often waste time and miss out on opportunities. For
- [Seeing the Hope Inside Yourself](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/seeing-the-hope-inside-yourself/): National Mentoring Month takes place every January. President Biden noted in his 2023 National Mentoring Month declaration, “As families and friends, teachers and counselors, coaches and co-workers, f
- [The Rule of Three for Hiring](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-rule-of-three-for-hiring-2/): Staffing is a challenge for every organization. Relentless competition with the for-profit sector can make hiring extra challenging for nonprofits. An organization committed to excellence deliberately
- [Problem-Solving and the “Let’s Do” Attitude](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude/): The current dysfunction in the House of Representatives in Washington highlights the importance of effective decision-making and problem-solving. Nonprofits are constantly faced with making difficult
- [Nonprofit Lessons from the FTX Collapse](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-lessons-from-the-ftx-collapse/): The demise of Sam Bankman-Fried’s FTX cryptocurrency exchange offers a lesson to nonprofit leaders on the importance of timely and accurate financial information. It’s also a reminder that we should a
- [The Dailies](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-dailies/): I’ve always made a point of challenging staff to connect their daily activities to basic values and goals. If they encounter a conflict they cannot resolve, I encourage them to communicate this to a m
- [The Whole Job](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-whole-job/): When working with nonprofits I often talk about the importance of managing “the whole job.” Whether an organization sells a product or a service, it needs functions and processes that support the miss
- [Managers Must Address Their Shortcomings](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/managers-must-address-their-shortcomings/): It is human nature to emphasize what we do well and ignore or put off working on what does not come as naturally. A good manager must fight that instinct, understand what key leadership or management
- [Hiring and the Two Negatives](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hiring-and-the-two-negatives/): Last week I talked about how important it is to hire excellent people, people who can own their work, both its successes and failures. I’ve got a tip about how to make great hires. In addition to the
- [The “Let’s Do” Attitude](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-lets-do-attitude/): When your primary focus is just on solving problems, it shapes your attitude toward new ideas and how to put them to work. You want to go beyond pondering a problem to imagining the solution. It’s not
- [Face the Elevator Door](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/face-the-elevator-door/): Change is the medium of opportunity. At Applied Materials, my team came up with a concept we called “facing the elevator door,” as a way of thinking about opportunity. With shifting economic cycles, t
- [Where Strategy Meets Action](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/where-strategy-meets-action/): Implementation is partly about an attitude: Just do it. It’s when strategy meets a bias toward action and thoughtful completion. People tend to get comfortable with process and reports. The great valu
- [Hubs and Spokes](https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hubs-and-spokes/): Last week I looked at the difference between leadership and management. This week I want to consider the evolution from loose entrepreneurial management to a more structured hierarchy. Most start-up o