Well, you just took on an unpaid leadership role in a non-profit. Let’s discuss the stresses of volunteer leadership.
Why am I doing this?
From time to time, we get pulled into a volunteer leadership position.
It could be professional, such as a board member in the local chamber of commerce. Or, the position may be more personal, such as service on a homeowner’s association board, or at a church or parish.
Regardless, we’re doing this because we wouldn’t say NO! In so doing, we take on the stresses of volunteer leadership.
What are some downsides?
It’s a given that volunteer leadership is unpaid, thankless, time-consuming, and very often stressful.
But, what are some general categories of volunteer stresses? Let’s look at three.
1). Difficult People Interpersonal issues are a major challenge.
Some of your peers will be self-consumed. They have an agenda that’s at odds with the mission and goals of the organization. Some are convinced there’s only one right way – – their way.
Unfortunately, some volunteers are just plain stupid! They believe any and all wild rumors. And, they want you to act on those conspiracy theories!
2). Organizational Sustainability There are threats that endanger the existence of the organization.
Those threats may be external, such as the loss of a major funding source. Or, the threat is internal, such as posed by an incompetent or arrogant director who is destroying trust and wasting resources.
As a volunteer leader, you feel pressured to shield the organization and its members from those threats.
Your constant focus is on protecting others. As such, you as a volunteer leader experience extreme stress.
3). Difficult Choices Some decisions are especially challenging. They’re controversial. Conflict-producing. The stakes may be unusually high.
As a leader and influencer, you feel the pressure to make wise choices, even as you engage others in the decision.
It’s important at these times to be especially conscious of how wise words and wise behavior enhance your influence as a leader.
The Precept
In Ecclesiastes 1.17-18 Solomon reflects back on his term of office and his life successes. Ironically, his focus on knowing wisdom was a source of stress “…vexation of spirit.”
Why? Because being wise caused him to be especially aware of the poor choices other people make!
In Ecclesiastes 1.18 he states that “…in much wisdom is much grief…”
Again, why so? Because he was aware of the unrealized potential that existed in the lives of leaders who struggle with organizational influence because they didn’t know wisdom.
Therefore, having the needed leadership skills is critical, especially when facing intense challenges. However, expect to experience stress as a result of recognizing “what could be” in that organization.
Apply This Today!
Volunteer leadership is both rewarding and stressful. Don’t naively believe there are no emotional costs involved. That awareness is especially important when the organization and its members are under attack.
Remember, knowing the right thing to do and doing the right thing can be two different things! Some choices and some confrontations come at a high personal cost to you as a volunteer leader. Be prepared to face conflicts that, unfortunately, are unresolvable. Thus, at times you will face a stay-or-go choice for you as a leader.
Recognize that part of the stress of volunteer leadership is isolation. You may disagree with those who are very close to you. Hence, the challenge of doing that right thing!
Finally, when the situation is especially intense, step back and ask yourself “Is this really worth it?” You must balance the contribution you’re making against the extreme personal costs you’re paying to be a volunteer leader.
I’m Dale Young. My posts share the balanced life to build wise character and guide wise behavior.
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