Weary Of Disorganizations

Time to let go of startups

by j. brotherlove

Have you ever been a part of an organization with an ambitious and honorable, but not terribly organized, mission? I’m a member of two such groups, in particular, that are stressing me a bit because I don’t understand the direction of either group. I’m not convinced anyone else understands either. However, with the new demands of returning to school on my back, it may be time to cut the cord on my involvement with one or both of them.

To be clear, I’m not afraid of doing grunt work. I like the energy involved with starting a new project or growing an existing business. I’ve worked in the trenches with groups that grew out of a “good idea”. I’ve been a part of startup organizations, crafting mission statements, choosing officers, deliberating about names, selecting board members, 501c3 filings, etc.

What’s more, I did all of that in my 20s. Is it selfish of me to be “over” that phase of organizations now that I am older? I feel like I’ve had my fill of infighting in activist coalitions, poor business management in arts organizations, and the woes of alternative publications that are not financially viable or can’t grasp simple editing techniques.

This is one reason I shun the arts and activist scene in Atlanta although, a part of me misses the passion of individuals who typically belong to those groups. I know quite a few folks out there fighting “the good fight” so I hear about the fallout from various associations jockeying for the same limited dollars and resources. Hearing about it is enough to bring back (mostly, bad) memories.

I don’t want to be in that grind again. It is too unfulfilling for me to work so hard for meager advancements (which sometimes cannot be seen or measured). I’m still on hand to lend advice or mail a check — both which are just as important to fledgling organizations. But as for the nuts and bolts of these endeavors, I think it’s best I pass and focus on some of my own goals.

Of course, my opinion could change if I were to find a professional organization with a defined mission; planned financial strategy; active board of directors, staff and volunteers; clear communication; basic PR and marketing skills; and the balls to follow through with a project.

Is that too much to ask for?

I fully understand your pain.

But now if the utopia organization existed as you described, what work would there be for you to bring the table?

For me the, perfect organizaiton would alwasy be evolving toward that utopia. Change is good, and as an organization grows, so should its mission and its board and staff. As members leave, their job should be to replace themselves with someone equally or more capable to ensure that growth continues.

I wish you luck in your decision, I know its a tough one.

Been there, buddy. Been there.

About two years ago, I looked up and realized I was giving way too much of my free time to organizations and causes from which I was deriving very little pleasure. At the end of the day, I couldn’t see what I was getting out of my association any more. So I quit. Like you, I would continue to be there to give advice (outside of a meeting, however) or write a check. But I wasn’t gonna put in the same amount of time again. These activities were draining, not sustaining me. I haven’t regretted it.

All groups evolve over time. New people come in, old people leave. If they are meant to continue, then someone will step up to fill the void.