As I reflect on my personal journey two years after starting this business, I can't help but marvel at how transitioning into a career as a nonprofit consultant rescued me from the constant cycle of stress and burnout that I had come to accept. The relentless grind of my early days in the nonprofit sector, where the mission consumed my every waking moment, eventually led to a breaking point. But through a combination of courage, self-discovery, and determination, I found a path that allowed me to contribute meaningfully to charitable causes while prioritizing my own health and happiness.

Fresh out of college, I was full of passion and determination to make a difference. I dove headfirst into the world of nonprofit work, taking on increasing workloads, responsibilities, and stress. Bandwidths and budgets were always tight, and it became the norm to wear multiple hats and put personal needs aside for the sake of the mission. I began to conflate professional performance with the success of the cause, unknowingly pushing my mental and physical well-being to the backseat.

After five years in the sector, I reached a breaking point. As a development director responsible for a $7 million annual budget and managing a team of ten, my days had become a waking nightmare. Working 12-hour days became the norm, leaving me with little time for proper meals, exercise, and personal relationships. I felt overwhelmed and constantly pulled in all directions. Quitting my job in 2021 was a scary leap, but it also came with an enormous sigh of relief.

A few weeks later, an unexpected opportunity presented itself. A friend, Catalina, proposed the idea of starting our own consulting business in the nonprofit sector. I tentatively accepted, but I knew that in order to be successful I would need to set new ground rules that would prioritize my well-being.

Embarking on this new career path as a nonprofit consultant, I made a conscious decision to prioritize my mental and physical health. Working from the comfort of my home allowed me to organize my schedule in a way that truly made me happy. I began starting every day with an early morning walk (now I'm up to an average of five miles a day!). I started making time just to chat with family and friends, over a meal or on the phone, reviving neglected relationships. As Catalina and I collaborated on our business, we realized that we could actually allow ourselves to make the work fun, as long as we set clear parameters for the type of work we wanted to take on. Most importantly, we committed to working no more than 30 hours a week, leaving ample time for self-care, hobbies, and family moments.

This journey has taken time and a lot of trial and error, but two years later, I can confidently say that I am in a better place both mentally and physically. By setting boundaries with clients and selectively choosing projects, I have discovered a sense of fulfillment that I hadn't experienced before. Contributing meaningfully to a variety of charitable causes that align with my values has been immensely rewarding. I am now being paid what I am worth, and most importantly, I have reclaimed control over my health and personal life.

I'm living proof that transitioning into a career as a nonprofit consultant can save not only your mental and physical health but also rekindle your passion for making a difference. Breaking free from the notion that burnout is the price to pay for devotion to the cause has been a transformative experience. I encourage anyone feeling trapped in the nonprofit grind to explore this path, to dare to prioritize their own well-being, and to discover a healthier and happier way to make a lasting impact. There is immense value in what we do, and with the right balance, we can continue to contribute meaningfully while also taking care of ourselves. I for one, will never look back.