Last week I received this email from a foundation CEO: “I do have your book and it’s just fabulous. You are really one of the best sources for meaningful information in the foundation world – Thank you!”

I’m not sharing this to toot my own horn. I’m sharing it to emphasize the critical importance of investing in our own personal and professional development.

Eight years ago I truly believed that no one cared what I had to say, and that I had nothing to share with the field of philanthropy. I honestly thought I had maybe 1-2 articles of content to share – total, ever! Then I took the last of my savings and invested in a consultant training program that completely changed my life and my consulting practice. Every year since, I’ve invested time and money in coaching, training, and peer networks, so that I can continuously improve my life and better serve my clients.

The first thing I did when I returned from that training is create this Confident Giving newsletter. Last year I published my second book. I regularly write for Forbes.com, and have been published the Chronicle of Philanthropy, SSIR, Wealth Management, Alliance Magazine, and other prestigious publications around the world. Apparently, I have a LOT to say! And most importantly it’s helping donors and foundation leaders.

But I wouldn’t have done any of this had I not invested in myself.

I write about the importance of funders investing in themselves – such as their own learning, development, leadership, talent, research, strategy, coaching, and advising – in my book, Delusional Altruism. We all need to embrace an abundance mindset and recognize that the more we invest in something – such as ourselves and our grantees – the greater the outcome will be. The more impactful we will be. The greater joy we will feel.

I invite you to ask yourself: Who do you want to be a year from now (as a person or as an organization)? What would become possible for you if you were able to do that? What investments could you make in yourself now to achieve that goal? What’s at risk if you don’t do this?

If you need help answering those questions, I’d be happy to jump on a call and brainstorm with you. Feel free to schedule a call with me.